📅 April 15, 2015 📍 Lake Valley, Carstensz, Tembagapura District - Papua
With a spirit of unity and dedication, the 8th Anniversary of the 20th Infantry Brigade Ima Jaya Keramo (IJK) was commemorated in an extraordinary and unforgettable way. For the first time ever, the celebration ceremony was held in the open air of the Carstensz Mountain Range, precisely in the Lake Valley at an altitude of 4,250 meters above sea level - making it one of the highest military anniversary commemorations in Indonesia, quite literally.
This grand ceremony was led by the Commander of Military Region XVII/Cenderawasih, Major General Fransen Siahaan, and was attended by more than 600 participants, The Red and White flag, including personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), National Police (Polri), members of Persit (military wives’ association), regional government officials from Mimika Regency, and local residents. In a moving and proud atmosphere, the Red and White flag fluttered in the cold air of Papua's highlands, embodying the fighting spirit of the soldiers guarding the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.
🔰 A Celebration with Profound Meaning
In his address, the Cenderawasih Regional Commander emphasized that the Brigif 20 IJK anniversary celebration on Carstensz was more than a ceremony - it was a meaningful moments to strengthen camaraderie, build unit spirit, and enhance the personal quality of every soldier. He also highlighted the importance of discipline and two-way communication between commanders and their troops to maintain the honor and image of the Indonesian Army in the public eye.
“Discipline is the key to building a positive image of the Army, and every soldier must see their unit as a place for service and personal growth.,”This is the first time I've heard of this," said Lieutenant Colonel Teguh Pudji Raharjo, Head of Information for Military Region XVII/Cenderawasih, relaying the Commander's message from the military headquarters.
🛡️ Spirit of Service in the Land of Papua
As part of the event series, the Regional Commander also visited TNI military posts 39 and 50 along the PT Freeport Indonesia mining road. There, he engaged directly with soldiers and handed out care packages as a sign of support and motivation.
Brigif 20 Ima Jaya Keramo oversees three key battalions:
- 754th Infantry Battalion Eme Neme Kangasi (Timika)
- 755th Infantry Battalion Yalet (Merauke)
- 756th Infantry Battalion Winame Sili (Wamena)
🌄 Harmony Between the Army and Papua's Natural Beauty
This event is a living proof that Papua's majestic nature can serve as an inspiring stage for military activities and nationalistic spirit, while also promoting environmental awareness and love for the land. The collaboration aligns with the vision of the Papua Mountaineering Association, which aims to advance dignified and sustainable mountaineering practices.
The Papua Mountaineering Association commends the spirit of Brigif 20 Ima Jaya Keramo for choosing to mark their historic day in the heart of Papua's mountains. May the spirit of service and patriotism continue to soar - as high as the flag they once raised atop Carstensz.
