On the eastern end of Indonesia’s largest island, the U.S. Army is working with Indonesian forces to build roads and provide humanitarian assistance as part of Exercise Super Garuda Shield. The annual two-week exercise runs from August 26 to September 6, 2024, and aims to advance military modernization and improve joint capabilities.
“This operation is critical to strengthening our relationship with Indonesia,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Rahul Lama, an engineer with the 130th Engineer Brigade, 8th Theater Sustainment Command. “As we train with them, we send U.S. soldiers into the community to help with various relief efforts. Today we are helping to build a road so that farmers in the area have better transportation options for the food they grow.”
This low-lying part of the Indo region is prone to flooding during the monsoon season, making access difficult and affecting local agriculture. Farmers rely on their produce for their livelihoods, and flooding can threaten the community’s food supply as well as commodities such as cotton and silk.
“This is my second time here. Last year I was here to build more roads and I’m really excited to be doing it again because I feel like it’s made a really positive impression on the locals,” Sgt. Lama continued. “The locals (Indonesians) are very grateful, they give us a warm welcome when we’re here because they see what we’re doing for them.”
The term “Garuda” is derived from a mythical creature from local legends and traditions in East Java, the same area where many of these exercises take place. The bird-like creature, which is also depicted on the Indonesian national coat of arms, symbolizes knowledge, power and bravery. These values are clearly felt throughout the joint exercise.
This partnership benefits the United States, Indonesia, and participating nations by enhancing trust, global stability, security, and prosperity while upholding international law and shared values. The U.S. military continually seeks opportunities for multinational events to strengthen alliances and partnerships.
