Prejudice toward soldiers

Prejudice toward soldiers

From Suara Karya

Some people frequently view the armed forces, particularly the
Army, with prejudice. For example, when the Army's Strategic
Reserves Command (Kostrad) held exercises in Ciemas district in
Sukabumi, West Java, on March 21, it was rumored that the
exercises were aimed at dealing with terrorist activities.

It was even said the exercises were in preparation of forging
military cooperation with the U.S. army.

In reality, the exercises were merely an effort to improve
combat skills among Kostrad soldiers so that they will have
improved capability and be ready to be deployed any time,
anywhere. Certainly, it was closely related to their function as
the guardians of the country's unity.

Witnessing the seriousness of the soldiers in conducting their
exercises, President Megawati, eyes brimming with tears, asked
them: "Can you save this nation?"

This should be taken as a sign that it is time for every
component of the nation to stop harboring prejudices and instead
give moral support to these soldiers to jointly create a better
future.

SUWARNO

Bekasi, West Java