Aboard the Indonesia-made tactical vehicle Maung Garuda, the president began the celebration by inspecting troops and various defense vehicles and equipment stationed at Monas in Central Jakarta on Sunday morning.
In the vehicle, he was accompanied by his long-time friend and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, and ceremony commander Lieutenant General Bambang Trisnohadi, who leads the Joint Regional Defense Command III.
Trailing behind Prabowo’s vehicle were Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak, Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali, and Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Tonny Harjono.
The large formation of soldiers standing in line during the inspection echoed a battle cry as the head of state passed them by.
In response, Prabowo saluted the officers and, using two microphones installed in the vehicle, voiced his appreciation for their devotion and dedication to safeguarding Indonesia’s security, integrity, and sovereignty.
“Thank you for your service. Thank you, everyone,” he said - remarks he repeated more than 50 times during the 10-minute inspection.
Afterward, the president proceeded to a special podium to preside over the commemorative ceremony, which commenced around 8 a.m. local time and brought together 8,600 soldiers from across the military branches.
For the occasion, the troops wore special uniforms that differed from their usual camouflage attire.
To showcase Indonesia’s defense posture, the Army, Navy, and Air Force deployed a combined 1,047 pieces of equipment and vehicles, including F-16 and T-50i Golden Eagle fighter jets, for a parade, battle simulation, and aerial displays during the celebration.
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Translator: Genta T/Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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