Soeharto honors former adjutants

JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto has given meritorious awards to eight high-ranking military officers who once served as his adjutants. An award was also given to a police colonel who served as adjutant to First Lady Tien Soeharto.

The Satyalancana Wirakarya awards were presented on behalf of President Soeharto at the Armed Forces (ABRI) Headquarters on Wednesday by ABRI Chief Gen. Feisal Tanjung.

The eight officers were Navy Admiral Tanto Koeswanto, Army Lt. Gen. Soeyono, Army Maj. Gen. Wiranto, Police Maj. Gen. Dibyo Widodo, Rear Air Marshall Supandi, Rear Air Marshal Suryohadi Djatmiko, Rear Admiral R. Maryono and Police Brig. Gen. Moerman.

Police Col. Sri Kusmaryati, a former adjutant of Mrs. Tien, completed the list, according to an ABRI statement.

A stint as the President's adjutant is considered a major plus, leading to promotion and elevated positions in the military. Tanto is currently the Navy's chief of staff, Soeyono is chief of ABRI's General Affairs and Wiranto is chief of the Jakarta Garrison.

According to the statement, the recipients of the awards were considered successful in providing security and services that allowed the President to conduct his state duties. (emb)