TLL - The Early Days

I'm in communication with an xPASKAL officer, Kept Johari Ramza RMN (R), on the issue of Terumbu Layang-Layang (TLL), aka Station 'LIMA'. He is kind enough to entertain me in sharing his experiences when he and his merry men were given the honour to be the first Malaysians to enjoy an all expenses-paid  holiday on a fantasy atoll in the South China Sea. 

My squadron, No 5 Sqn, RMAF Labuan, was fully involved in 'Ops Tugu'.  A detachment of one Nuri set sailed on board KD Sri Banggi in early 1983. I told him of a directive from higher command only after the aircraft had airborne for deck landing on the ship. Put this way lah, I'm grateful to Almighty Allah that everything went smoothly without any incident otherwise there's a lot to answer...Syukur Alhamdulillah. 

 Lt (N) Johari,  the pioneer Chieftain of the inhibitants of TLL/Station 'LIMA' receiving the PM 

I'm elated by his comments sent through the e-mail.... 
  
Yes, I was very impressed with the risks taken by the Nuri crews. Considering the very basic support available on board KD SRI BANGGI.  Other than 'luck', the professionalism of the pilots and air crew ensured that no untoward incidents took place throughout the operations. Credit should also be given to the ship's crew, the army engineers and everyone else involved in the operations.

I believe the efforts of those pilots and air crew who served in the early days of Terumbu Layang-Layang should be shared with current RMAF's officers and men. Likewise, the efforts of those Paskal, ship's crew and army engineers should be made known to current sailors and soldiers alike. Last but not least, the early Terumbu story must be made known to all Malaysians!

Appreciate the efforts you are taking in documenting and telling this TLL story which would otherwise be forgotten.

Salam,

Johari Ramzan

Yes, I received this official letter from the Pang5 of MAWILUD 2, Kuching...

(No 5 Sqn 'Scrap Book')

I'm proud to say that I, too, had contributed in the transformation of the now Pulau Layang-Layang. The first chapter of my proposed 2nd book would be on this foremost front line of our beloved nation as a tribute to all those involved in the initial transformation of an atoll to a holiday resort...Pulau Layang-Layang, if it materialises, insyaAllah.

Kept Johari TLDM (B)....Thank you.

"NEVER HAVE SO MUCH OWED BY SO MANY TO SO FEW" (Winston Churchill)....Very relevant indeed!

PS. Continuation of ' The  Story of A Soldier's Wife'  here.