Pak Wismoyo was a commander who had a significant influence on me. His teachings personally affected me, particularly his emphasis on always thinking good, doing good, and speaking well. He taught his men to refrain from thinking negatively about others, a lesson that has stayed with me. I believe that the values he instilled are not only beneficial but also in line with the Indonesian and TNI culture.
He believed that brave men should be happy and that a leader should uplift his men through activities like singing, sports, and group activities. He emphasized the importance of creating a positive and joyful atmosphere for his troops. I first met Pak Wismoyo Arismunandar when I joined KOPASSANDHA, where he served as the Deputy Assistant for Security (Waaspam). Over time, as he became our Commander in the KOPASSANDHA Group 1, I got to know him better. His motto ‘Think good, do good, and speak well’ had a profound impact on me.
Pak Wismoyo advocated for leaders to engage with their men, even if it meant participating in activities like singing and dancing, regardless of skill level. He believed that this unity between leader and troops was essential for building a strong bond. His lessons on creating a happy environment and showing forgiveness towards mistakes have stuck with me throughout my career.
In addition to his philosophical teachings, Pak Wismoyo led by example. Despite challenges like a knee injury, he actively participated in training exercises with his men. He also encouraged physical activities like swimming, volleyball, and marksmanship, the latter of which he excelled in. His emphasis on marksmanship motivated me to become one of the best shooters in KOPASSUS and KOSTRAD.
Furthermore, Pak Wismoyo’s advice on staying close to the Almighty God before embarking on a mission resonated with me deeply. He reminded me of the responsibility I held as a commander over the lives of my soldiers and the risks we faced in combat. His guidance on spiritual preparedness left a lasting impression on me.
Overall, Pak Wismoyo’s leadership style, focused on creating a positive and united environment, influenced my own approach to leadership. His teachings on valuing good spirits, showing forgiveness, and engaging with troops have shaped my leadership philosophy and continue to guide me in my military career.
