Lieutenant General TNI (Ret.) Himawan Soetanto was an exemplary leader who taught the value of being close to his men. A commander, according to him, must be among his men from the time they wake up until they go to bed. Checking on the condition of his men, from the kitchen to the quality of their underwear, was crucial. Thanks to Himawan Soetanto, Prabowo Subianto developed a habit of paying attention to details such as the kitchen and equipment of his men. The corrupt practices in the kitchen, such as rationing one kilogram of meat for 16 soldiers, were uncovered through this close monitoring.
General Soetanto, known for his neat appearance and friendly demeanor, was a well-educated individual who emphasized the importance of reading. He had a vast collection of history books and would often engage in discussions about them with Prabowo. His combat experience reflected in his leadership style, which was in contrast to those with less combat experience. The importance of being present among the soldiers and adapting to the conditions on the ground was a valuable lesson learned from him.
As for Lieutenant General TNI (Ret.) Sarwo Edhie Wibowo, his charismatic presence and leadership from the front made him an idol for many. As a mentor, he instilled the spirit of patriotism and perseverance in his cadets. His book, “My Life is for the Country and the Nation,” emphasized the values of love for the homeland and pride in the legacy of the forefathers. Sarwo Edhie’s dedication to service and integrity as a soldier left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Lastly, Grand General TNI (Ret.) Abdul Haris Nasution, a key figure in the struggle for Indonesian independence, shared his experiences and strategies with Prabowo Subianto. Known for his expertise in history and guerrilla warfare tactics, Pak Nas was a historical actor whom Prabowo felt privileged to learn from. The interaction with Nasution provided valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of the ’45 generation.
Overall, the leadership lessons and values imparted by these exemplary leaders of the Indonesian Armed Forces had a profound impact on Prabowo Subianto’s development as a military leader. Their dedication, integrity, and commitment to service serve as inspirations for those who follow in their footsteps.