By: Prabowo Subianto [taken from the Book: Military Leadership Notes from Experience Chapter I]
Pak Tono Suratman is not only a skilled fencing athlete but also an exceptional shooter and swimmer. It is rare to find someone who excels in both freefall parachuting and diving, but Pak Tono is proficient in both. As a member of the Frogmen Force (Pasukan Katak), he also stands out in karate. I often regard him as an Army Officer who sets a remarkable example and should be an idol for his subordinates and the future generation.
When I was appointed as the Minister of Defence, I searched for a suitable individual to lead Taruna Nusantara High School. I approached Pak Tono Suratman and asked, ‘Would you be willing to be the Principal of Taruna Nusantara?’
‘I’m willing.’ Imagine the level of patriotism exhibited by this man. Despite holding positions such as the Army Chief of Staff’s security assistant and PANGDAM of Kalimantan in the past, he willingly accepted the role of principal at Taruna Nusantara High School.
Tono Suratman is a year my junior, but we have shared a close bond for a long time. Despite the age gap, I consider him to be like a younger brother to me. In our bachelor days, he often stayed at my parents’ house on Jalan Kertanegara number 4 in Kebayoran Baru.
During my time as a Company Commander (DANKI), he served as the Platoon Commander (DANTON) 1. Our paths crossed in East Timor, where he was part of Nanggala 28 and I operated under the codename Kancil, while he was known as Kancil Satu. His exceptional performance as a field officer stood out during our time together.
From his days as a cadet, Pak Tono demonstrated a keen interest in sports, excelling in fencing, swimming for the national team, and marksmanship. He made a name for himself as a young officer in KOPASSUS, eventually leading the KOPASSUS Para-Commando group 1 and taking over as Commander of KOPASSUS Education and Training Center (PUSDIKPASSUS).
He also commanded the Rajawali task force, known for its effectiveness in anti-guerrilla tactics training and deployment in East Timor. This task force laid the foundation for the formation of the Raider Battalion under General Ryamizard Ryacudu’s leadership as Army Chief of Staff.
Aside from his prowess in fencing, Pak Tono is also a skilled marksman, excelling in various shooting disciplines. His proficiency extends to swimming, leading the Frogmen Command of Detachment 81 and training with the Navy’s elite Frogmen Command (KOPASKA). His versatility includes combat diving and freefall parachuting, along with a strong foundation in karate.
When I assumed the role of Minister of Defense, I aimed to enhance Taruna Nusantara High School as a key institution under the Ministry’s guidance. The school, founded by Pak Benny Moerdani, holds significant importance in fostering future leaders for the nation.
Recognizing Pak Tono’s exceptional leadership qualities, I offered him the position of Principal at Taruna Nusantara. His willingness to take on this role despite his distinguished military career highlights his dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders.
His commitment to the school’s mission of nurturing outstanding students to become exemplary leaders for the nation reflects a deep sense of patriotism. Pak Tono’s leadership serves as a valuable lesson to be shared and passed on to future generations.
In my estimation, he is more than qualified to lead Indonesia’s Special Forces, surpassing even my own capabilities as a commando officer. His potential as a future Commander of KOSTRAD is evident, given his proven track record of leadership and excellence.
