COMMENT | The year 2023 marks the 30th year of Malbatt 1’s involvement in the battle foray and rescue mission of trapped American Rangers at the Bakara Market in Mogadishu, Somalia. The exact dates are Oct 3 and Oct 4, 1993.

As the former commander, I still distinctly remember the hectic episode. Malbatt 1 had executed an onerous mission with utmost sincerity and success, even at the precious loss of life and injuries to our men.

My then-deputy commander Mohd Rozi Baharom and I truly feel proud of our troop’s commitment, be they officers or other ranks. The rescue mission was fraught with fiery onslaught from Somalian rebel fighters who were heavily armed.

We emerged victorious through sheer grit, discipline, and God’s blessing...