Balikpapan Air Base Commemorates 80th TNI AU Anniversary with Theme of Boundless Service

PANGKALAN TNI Angkatan Udara (Lanud) Dhomber Balikpapan held a commemoration of the 80th anniversary in a simple yet dignified manner, carrying the theme “Boundless Service”. The event was also combined with the presentation of the Satya Lencana Kesetiaan honour badge to three personnel, as well as awards to the winners of sports competitions within the air base. Commander of Lanud Dhomber, Colonel Pnb Kisworo, after serving as the Inspector of the 80th TNI AU anniversary ceremony at the Lanud Dhomber courtyard in Balikpapan, stated that this commemoration serves as a momentum for reflection as well as strengthening commitment in safeguarding air sovereignty, particularly in the East Kalimantan region. “The series of anniversary activities began about 10 days prior, involving personnel and the community. This anniversary commemoration emphasises that service to the nation is not always manifested in grandeur, but through sustained dedication in maintaining sovereignty and providing benefits to the community,” he explained. His side organised various activities, from internal sports, social service, to beach cleaning actions together with the community as well as TNI-Polri elements in Balikpapan. This is as a form of closeness with the community. “The peak of the commemoration was marked by a ceremony attended by TNI AU personnel, elements of Satrad 225, and representatives of other units. Although carried out simply, the ceremony proceeded orderly and full of meaning,” said Kisworo. According to him, the theme “Boundless Service” reflects the spirit of the TNI AU to continue to be present and provide real contributions, both in defence tasks and social community activities. “Service is not always shown through large activities. The most important thing is our consistency in carrying out duties and being present amid the community,” he said. He added that amid national budget efficiency policies, the TNI AU still prioritises the main function of air defence. Ceremonial activities are reduced without disrupting operational readiness. “We adjust activities to be more efficient without reducing the essence of duties. Support for flight operations continues to run as it should,” said Kisworo. Lanud Dhomber Balikpapan, he explained, has a strategic role in supporting flight operations in the East Kalimantan region, including the provision of fuel and technical support for operating aircraft. Regarding security conditions, Kisworo assured that the airspace in East Kalimantan, including Balikpapan, is in a safe and controlled state. “Alhamdulillah, up to now our airspace is safe and maintained. There are no significant violations entering the Balikpapan or East Kalimantan areas,” he concluded.