KAJANG: The Special Actions Unit VAT 69 Commandos' free-fall at Selangor's state-level 69th National Day celebration at Stadium Kajang on Sunday (Aug 30) night was not just a display of skill; it was a powerful symbol of the elite unit's identity.
The number 69 in this year's celebration holds particular historical significance for them, as the unit was established in 1969, making the performance a symbolic tribute to over five decades of their existence.
The selection of six jumpers also reflected the operational structure of the VAT 69 Commandos, which operates in patrol units of six members, each with different specialisations.
VAT 69 Commando PARA Training branch officer, Asst Supt Mohd Yusrezal Mohd Yusof, said the number 69 and six jumpers making the jump was especially significant, carrying a deep sentimental value for its members.
"Although I have performed nearly 200 jumps throughout my 13 years of service, this jump felt truly special because the number 69 in this year's independence celebration seems to have a unique connection to our unit's identity," he said.
"The six jumpers selected for tonight's performance symbolise the operational norm of our special forces, where one patrol unit is made up of six members with different specialisations to ensure a mission's success, whether in the jungle or on special assignments," he said when met after the celebration.
The 43-year-old officer said the excitement of successfully executing the manoeuvre also added another chapter to his personal history, as it marked the VAT 69 Commandos' first free-fall performance in Selangor, carried out from an altitude of 4,500 feet.
Commenting on the challenges of the night jump and the hazy weather conditions, he said visibility and stadium lighting were among the main tests that jumpers had to overcome.
"Challenges are inevitable because night jumps involve lighting elements, especially the stadium floodlights below, which can affect the focus of less experienced jumpers.
"To overcome this, each jumper is equipped with special lights that allow us to detect the position of our teammates so that we can form the correct formation and land safely without going off course," he said. - Bernama
