Pak Wismoyo was a commander who had a significant influence on me personally. His teachings centered around always thinking good, doing good, and speaking well. He emphasized the importance of not harboring negative thoughts towards others. These values resonated deeply with Indonesian culture and the culture of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI).
Pak Wismoyo believed that brave men should always be happy, and that a leader should uplift his men through activities such as singing, sports, and group activities. He believed in creating a positive and encouraging environment for his troops. Despite facing mockery from some seniors and colleagues for paying attention to seemingly trivial matters like hand clapping, Pak Wismoyo stood by his beliefs.
He always practiced what he preached, participating in activities with his men and encouraging a sense of unity and camaraderie. He believed that a leader should always be present among his men, engaging in their activities even if it meant singing off-key or dancing to their favorite tunes. This, he believed, strengthened the bond between the leader and his troops.
Pak Wismoyo’s approach to leadership extended to his forgiving nature and his motto of “discipline is my breath, loyalty is my soul, honor is everything.” He also emphasized the importance of not speaking ill of others and led by example in various training exercises, even when faced with personal injuries.
Additionally, Pak Wismoyo was passionate about sports and marksmanship, encouraging his men to excel in shooting. He personally engaged in shooting competitions and always included skilled marksmen in his teams. His commitment to excellence and continuous training inspired others to strive for the same level of proficiency.
One particular instance that left a lasting impression on me was when Pak Wismoyo emphasized the importance of being close to God before embarking on a dangerous operation. He reminded me of the responsibility I held as a commander and the risks involved in leading a team into potentially life-threatening situations.
Overall, Pak Wismoyo’s teachings and actions had a profound impact on me and shaped my approach to leadership and camaraderie within the Indonesian Armed Forces.
