Guarding South Papua, Soldiers of Kodam XXIV/Mandala Trikora Choose Not to Go Home for Eid
Hundreds of TNI soldiers under the command of Kodam XXIV/Mandala Trikora in South Papua are confirmed to remain on alert at their respective posts and choose not to return home for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. This step is taken as a form of commitment to maintaining sovereignty and security in the eastern horizon of Indonesia during the Lebaran holiday period in 2026.
Major General TNI Lucky Avianto stated that most personnel have even missed Eid moments in their hometowns for several years in a row to carry out security duties in the region.
“Even though there is an opportunity to go home, TNI soldiers in Kodam XXIV/Mandala Trikora choose not to return home. Most of them have celebrated Eid several times with fellow comrades and the people of Papua,” said Lucky in his statement on Saturday (21/3/2026).
Lucky, who was recently appointed as Pangkogabwilhan III by the TNI Commander, mentioned that celebrating Eid in the assignment area has a deeper dimension for a soldier. According to this recipient of the Adhi Makayasa award in 1996, the guard posts have become a second home for the personnel.
In Papua, the celebrations are conducted simply yet solemnly. The soldiers mingle with the surrounding community at Masjid At-Taqwa Makodam XXIV/Mandala Trikora to perform Eid prayers and share joy.
“Eid for TNI soldiers is not just about gathering with the immediate family, but strengthening togetherness with the people. Here, every duty station is a home and every citizen is family,” said the general, who is also the best graduate of Sesko TNI and Lemhannas.
For the TNI, serving in the silence of guard posts during the holiday is a real form of sacrifice and worship. Lucky views this moment as a bridge of humanity to strengthen the relationship between the TNI and the people of Papua, while affirming the TNI’s role as protectors of the people.
He assured that the soldiers’ longing for their families in their hometowns does not at all weaken their spirit of dedication. On the contrary, it becomes additional motivation to guard the sovereignty of the NKRI.
“Every takbir that echoes in the guard posts is a reminder that defending the nation is part of sacred worship. Eid in Papua is proof of the TNI soldiers’ loyalty in standing guard over unity and ensuring the Red and White flag continues to fly over every inch of Indonesian soil,” he concluded. (H-3)