Super Garuda Shield 2023: Strengthening International Military Bonds and Cross-Cultural Friendships

TIMESINDONESIA, SITUBONDO – The joint training of Super Garuda Shield (SGS) 2023 took place on Saturday (9/9/2023) at the Baluran Marine Combat Training Center in Situbondo, East Java. The beauty of Baluran beach and all the setting makes the training looks like a real combat yet enjoyable.

This annual Joint Combined Exercise brings together the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), and several other nations. Those including the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Papua New Guinea, France, Brunei Darussalam, Germany, the Philippines, South Korea, and East Timor.

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Laughter and cheers filled the air as Elizabeth, a soldier from Hawaii US began to tell her story. "We're all very happy," she said, flashing a radiant smile.

Team Work Established

The troop engaging the weapons at the Super Garuda Shield training in Situbondo, East Java, on Saturday (9/9/2023). (Photo: Sarifah Latowa/Times Indonesia)

"Training, meeting new friends, and immersing ourselves in new cultures at Garuda Shield are incredibly enjoyable. We learn how to work together, respect one another, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures. These are experiences that go beyond books and classrooms; they're real-life lessons," Elizabeth shared during an interview with Major General TNI Farid Makruf  at Puslatpur Marinir Baluran, Situbondo, East Java.

Elizabeth's voice resonated with warmth as she praised the inclusive and adaptive approach of Garuda Shield. "The soldiers at Garuda Shield are incredibly disciplined," she added. "We train here safely and accurately, fulfilling our duty as soldiers to plan operations and execute orders precisely," she continued.

However, it wasn't just discipline and learning that fueled the soldiers' enthusiasm. The lady revealed that she came to Garuda Shield driven by personal interest and the encouragement of her superiors.

Filled with Frinedship and Hospitality

"But that's not all. We also come here to gain experience and build cross-cultural friendships that we'll carry home with us. For us, this isn't merely a military exercise, it's an exchange of knowledge, experiences, and the foundation of lasting relationships," she explained.

Another American soldier, Christy, also expressed similar sentiments while at Banongan Beach, Situbondo, East Java, on Sunday (10/9/2023). Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she shared her excitement about participating in SGS.

"Training on the beach that's really cool, fascinating. But what really got us there is the more important. How do we learn each other, how we get to know each other, so that we can do something for us," she stated passionately.

Christy emphasized that the Super Garuda Shield training isn't just about military maneuvers or combat strategies, it's also a platform for American soldiers and Indonesian troops to engage in various activities, including disaster relief efforts and social initiatives.

"We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Super Garuda Shield training," she concluded.

Even though they were far from home, Christy and her fellow soldiers found warmth and cooperation during this international military exercise.

Important Exercise for All the Country

Colonel Paul Hayward, Deputy Commander of Interoperability from the United States, added his perspective on the significance of this training. His serious demeanor and sharp gaze underscored the importance of the exercise.

"Garuda Shield is a vitally important exercise not only for the US and Indonesia but also the multinational partners that here as part of the exercise. We've seen tremendouus degree of synergy and cooperation built by all participants," he remarked.

During the training, U.S. troops endeavored to follow local customs and procedures. While equipment differences were inconsequential due to the abundance of American-made weaponry, it aligned with the requirements of Garuda Shield.

Apart from military training, Paul also recounted the friendships and collaboration forged during the exercise. "Being able to connect personally with my counterparts in the TNI across services, the hospitality and the great friendship in very short time, it's been amazing," he ended. 

Captain Arm Rizky from Yonarmed 8 Uddhata Yudha sai that he gained more experience and skill during this joint exercise. "It's not about who has the more modern weapons but more about how we could accelarte and blend into one and in harmony to operate the weapons," he said.

More Participants to Come in the Future

In addition, Colonel Park from South Korea stated his enthusiasm toward the Super Garuda Shield exercise. "We just observing for now and seeing this, we would like to join this exercise in the future," the guy said.

Behind the rigorous training and sweat, there was also light-hearted entertainment through various activities during their leisure time. Playing cards, engaging in sports, sharing stories, and laughter became part of their daily lives. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they all discovered the common thread of friendship and unity.

The experiences and learnings shared by soldiers like Elizabeth, Christy, Paul, Rizky, and Park offer insights into what many soldiers encountered and felt during the Super Garuda Shield 2023 Training. These experiences in the field represent more than just military training; they signify a new realm of learning, understanding, and enduring friendships that strengthen the bonds between nations.

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