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 excellent marksman and swimmer. He excels in both freefall and diving, which is rare for most individuals. As a member of the Frogmen Force (Pasukan Katak), he has also demonstrated proficiency in karate. I believe he is a shining example of an Army Officer and should serve as an idol for his subordinates and the next generation.
During my tenure as Minister of Defence, I sought a suitable candidate to lead Taruna Nusantara High School. I approached Pak Tono Suratman with the offer, asking, ‘Are you willing to be the Principal of Taruna Nusantara?’
‘I am willing,’ he responded. The patriotism displayed by this man is truly remarkable. Despite his previous roles as the Army Chief of Staff’s security assistant and the Commander of Territorial Command in Kalimantan, he humbly accepted the role of principal at Taruna Nusantara High School.
Tono Suratman, my junior by a year, has been a close companion for some time. Despite the difference in our ages, our bond is akin to that of siblings. During our bachelor days, he frequently stayed at my parents’ residence on Jalan Kertanegara number 4 in Kebayoran Baru.
While I served as Company Commander (DANKI), Tono held the position of Platoon Commander (DANTON) 1, and together we were deployed to East Timor. He was a member of Nanggala 28, referred to as Kancil Satu, while I was known as Kancil. His exceptional performance as a field officer during our time together left a lasting impression on me.
Pak Tono has been actively involved in sports since his cadet days, participating in national fencing, AKMIL swimming, and marksmanship competitions. His leadership within KOPASSUS, where he served as the Frogmen Command at Detachment 81, further highlighted his exceptional talents.
Throughout his career, he progressed to become the Commander of the KOPASSUS Para-Commando group 1 and later assumed the role of Commander of KOPASSUS Education and Training Center (PUSDIKPASSUS). His leadership of the Rajawali task force, specializing in anti-guerrilla tactics and later deployed to East Timor, showcased his strategic capabilities in combat.
Aside from his sporting achievements, Pak Tono’s proficiency in pistol shooting, assault rifle handling, combat diving, and freefall parachuting set him apart as a well-rounded individual. His willingness to lead Taruna Nusantara High School, despite his illustrious military career, speaks volumes about his dedication to nurturing future leaders for our nation.
As I reflect on his exceptional qualities, I am convinced that Pak Tono’s leadership merits recognition and should serve as a guiding light for future generations. His unwavering commitment to excellence positions him as a role model deserving of admiration and emulation by officers and aspiring leaders alike.
Given his exemplary track record, I firmly believe that Pak Tono Suratman would have excelled as the commander of Indonesia’s Special Forces or even as the Commander of KOSTRAD, surpassing my own capabilities in these roles.
