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The world's largest archipelago provides a classic setting - and responsibility - for a Corps of Marines.
"We few, we happy few, we band of brothers-"
King Henry V
Introduction
IN order to write of my Corps, I must first reacquaint you with my country, particularly with its maritime aspects. We are a relatively young country, achieving independence on 17 August 1945. Even while we were struggling for independence, it was apparent that sea power in the form of an effective, versatile Navy and Marine Corps, would be a key to our success as a fledgling nation.
Indonesia, the world's largest archipelago, stretches nearly 3,000 miles from east to west and 1,000 miles from north to south, 3,000 islands and vast expanses of water provide the classic setting for a Marine Corps. Further, the strategic geographical location of Indonesia and our 105 million people provide further reasons for a sea power base. We are, as Venice, wedded to the sea.
Historical Background
The Indonesian Marine Corps (KKO) was first organized in 1945, during the fight for independence, under the name of Corps Mariners. The Corps Mariners then underwent a period of operational development up to 1950. A decree was issued on 8 October 1948 by the Minister of Defense, which placed the KKO within the Department of the Navy (Angkatan Laut). In its early years the KKO had only one infantry battalion.
During the period from 1950 until 1952 the KKO began efforts to consolidate, to better organize and promote the KKO in both military operations and staff organization. Training, both in-country and abroad, was intensified as part of this strengthening of the KKO. Excellent military schooling was obtained at Marine Corps Schools in Quantico, as well as in orientation trips to Okinawa, amphibious training courses at Coronado, and from mobile training teams (MTT's), which made brief trips to Indonesia. This U.S. training continued until 1964, when it was temporarily terminated. In all, nearly 500 KKO members attended courses in the U.S. This includes all of the present general officers.
The KKO has always been ready to undertake any operation vital to its country. The nature of these operations provides insight into our growing maritime role.
KKO operations are many, and span the...