Navy opens its bases to public to celebrate its 79th anniversary

To celebrate its 79th anniversary, the Indonesian Navy opened its bases to the public, providing a unique opportunity for citizens to engage with and learn about the country’s maritime defense capabilities. Here are the key details:

Key Highlights:

1. Event Overview:
   • Date and Occasion: The event was held on Saturday, marking the Navy’s 79th Anniversary, officially on September 10, 2024.
   • Public Engagement: The Navy opened several of its bases to showcase its defense system, including warships, amphibious tanks, and tactical vehicles.
2. Objective:
   • Educational Purpose: Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Ali, emphasized the goal of increasing public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, about Indonesia’s maritime and archipelagic nature. He highlighted that 70 percent of Indonesia is covered by sea.
   • Theme: The anniversary theme, “I Love the Sea,” is intended to promote maritime appreciation and underscore the Navy’s role in safeguarding the sea.
3. Exhibits and Activities:
   • Fleet Command Headquarters Base in Jakarta: Featured exhibitions of tactical vehicles from the Marine Corps, combat equipment, and weapons from the Frogman Forces Command (Kopaska). Visitors also saw miniatures of Navy warships, historical dioramas, and antique vehicles.
   • Other Locations: Similar exhibitions were held at the Fleet Command Base I in Tanjungpinang, Fleet Command Base II in Surabaya, and Fleet Command III in Sorong.
4. Community Engagement:
   • Public Services: The Navy also provided staple food packages, health services, and organized blood donation drives during the event.
5. Public Response:
   • Turnout: The Fleet Command Headquarters in Jakarta saw a significant number of visitors eager to explore the various displays and learn more about the Navy’s role in national defense.

Summary:

The Indonesian Navy’s 79th-anniversary celebrations were marked by an open house across its bases, aimed at fostering a deeper connection between the military and the public. The event featured a variety of exhibits showcasing naval capabilities and provided community services, aligning with the theme “I Love the Sea.” This initiative not only celebrated the Navy’s history but also reinforced its commitment to maritime security and public engagement.

Key Points:

1. Anniversary Celebration:
   • Event Date: Held on September 7, 2024, with the official anniversary on September 10, 2024.
   • Public Access: Several naval bases, including the Fleet Command Headquarters in Jakarta and others across the archipelago, were open to visitors.
2. Exhibits and Activities:
   • Fleet Command Headquarters: Featured displays of warships, amphibious tanks, tactical vehicles, and equipment from the Marine Corps and Frogman Forces Command (Kopaska).
   • Public Engagement: Visitors could see miniatures of Navy warships, historical dioramas, and antique vehicles.
3. Educational and Thematic Focus:
   • Slogan: The theme “I Love the Sea” was used to promote maritime appreciation and highlight Indonesia’s maritime identity.
   • Educational Effort: The event aimed to educate the younger generation about Indonesia’s maritime significance and the Navy’s defense role.
4. Community Outreach:
   • Additional Services: The Navy provided staple food packages, health services, and organized blood donation drives as part of the celebrations.
5. Locations:
   • Jakarta: Fleet Command Headquarters Base.
   • Tanjungpinang: Fleet Command Base I.
   • Surabaya: Fleet Command Base II.
   • Sorong: Fleet Command Base III.

Impact and Significance:

The open house events were well-received by the public and helped bridge the gap between the Navy and the community. The celebrations not only showcased the Navy’s capabilities but also reinforced the importance of maritime security and national defense. The initiative aligns with broader goals of fostering national pride and understanding of Indonesia’s maritime heritage.