Boyolali, (Air Force Devotion Day) The significance behind commemorating the 74th Air Force Devotion Day runs deep, symbolizing a legacy of struggle and sacrifice. Today, (29/7/2021), marks the exact observance of the 74th Air Force Devotion Day, an annual event held every 29th of July.
Tracing back in history, Air Force Devotion Day traces its origins to when the Netherlands violated the Linggarjati agreement on July 21, 1947. At that critical juncture, Dutch forces launched an assault on Air Force bases, igniting a determined resistance from Air Force personnel.
Baca juga: Yasarini, Inspirasi di Saat Pandemi
Historical Background of Air Force Devotion Day
In the early hours of July 29, 1947, the reverberating sound of aircraft engines emanated from Maguwo airbase. It was a mission led by flight cadets Sutardjo Sigit, Suharnoko Harbini, and Mulyono, supported by three sharpshooting technicians, namely Sutardjo, Kaput, and Dulrachman. Their objective was to strike Dutch military installations in Salatiga and Ambarawa.
In retaliation, on the afternoon of July 29, 1946, the Netherlands launched an attack on the VT-CLA Dakota aircraft, which was transporting medical supplies from the Malayan Red Cross. This assault was carried out using P-40 Kittyhawk aircraft.
This fateful action resulted in the Dakota crash-landing in Ngoto, a village located in the southern region of Yogyakarta. Sadly, this Dutch attack claimed the lives of three pioneering Air Force figures: Commodore Abdulracman Saleh, Commodore Adisucipto, and Air Officer Adisumarmo. This event serves as the poignant backdrop for the establishment of the commemorative occasion.
Today, the entire Pradita Dirgantara High School community pays its utmost respects to all Air Force personnel. It is a source of immense pride for Pradita Dirgantara High School to operate under the auspices of the Indonesian Air Force through the Yasarini Foundation. Additionally, the school's proximity to Adi Soemarmo Airport, situated on the border of Boyolali and Surakarta, is a testament to the honor of being associated with an airport inspired by the heroic efforts of Air Officer Adisumarmo.
In the years to come, Pradita Dirgantara High School will continue to produce future leaders, poised and prepared to defend and safeguard Indonesia's sovereignty. We have full confidence that our esteemed alumni will continue to devote themselves wholeheartedly to the welfare of our beloved homeland. Keep the spirit of determination alive, dear comrades! Success is within our reach!