General Sudirman, the first Commander of the TNI, has left a powerful legacy for future generations of TNI soldiers. His heroism and leadership exemplify the purest form of heroism, instilling a tradition of self-esteem and pride among TNI leaders.
Born in Purbalingga on January 24, 1916, General Sudirman started his journey as an elementary school teacher in Solo. When Indonesia’s Independence movement leaders convinced the Japanese occupiers to allow the formation of a self-defence military organization, Sudirman became part of the Pembela Tanah Air (PETA) force in Java.
As the leader of the Purwokerto battalion, Sudirman played a crucial role in seizing Magelang and driving out the British forces from the Netherlands East Indies. His relentless pursuit and fierce fighting spirit made him a heroic figure in the eyes of Indonesian freedom fighters.
In a significant turn of events, Sudirman was appointed as Commander-in-Chief of The People’s Security Army (TKR) after a protest by battalion commanders against an appointed Dutch-trained officer. Despite suffering from severe tuberculosis, Sudirman led the guerrilla warfare against the Dutch during their surprise attack on Yogyakarta in 1948.
While many leaders chose not to resist the Dutch incursion, Sudirman’s decision to engage in guerrilla warfare boosted the nation’s morale and eventually led to the TNI gaining the upper hand. His strong personality, courage, and sacrifices for the nation set a precedent for future TNI leaders to prioritize the nation’s interests above all.
General Sudirman’s actions and leadership have cemented the TNI’s reputation as a relentless force dedicated to upholding the nation’s honor and glory. His legacy of heroism continues to inspire future generations of TNI soldiers to be willing to sacrifice everything for the nation’s sake.
