Pak Wismoyo Arismunandar was a commander who greatly influenced me. His teachings on always thinking good, doing good, and speaking well left a lasting impact on me. He emphasized the importance of not harboring ill thoughts towards others, a valuable lesson that resonated with Indonesian and TNI culture. He believed that brave men must also be happy and that a leader should uplift his men through activities like singing and sports.
I first met Pak Wismoyo when I joined KOPASSANDHA, where he served as the Deputy Assistant for Security. Over time, he became our commander in KOPASSANDHA Group 1, and I got to know him better. His emphasis on positivity, good spirits, and humor was something that stood out to me. He encouraged us to be enthusiastic and to celebrate each other’s accomplishments.
One particular incident that showcased Pak Wismoyo’s influence on me was during a ceremony where he asked me to sing. I had practiced beforehand with a keyboardist, and my performance surprised everyone. His philosophy of creating a happy atmosphere and participating in his men’s activities made a lasting impression on me.
Pak Wismoyo’s motto of “discipline is my breath, loyalty is my soul, honor is everything” has stuck with me throughout the years. He also taught us the importance of not speaking ill of others and setting a good example through his actions. His dedication to sports and marksmanship inspired me to improve my shooting skills, and I became one of the best shooters in KOPASSUS and KOSTRAD.
One memorable moment was when Pak Wismoyo reminded me of the importance of being close to God before my first operation as a Company Commander. He emphasized the responsibility I held for the lives of my soldiers and the risks we faced. His guidance and support before that operation left a lasting impact on me.
Overall, Pak Wismoyo Arismunandar’s teachings and leadership style continue to influence me in my military career, and I strive to uphold the values he instilled in me.