An RMAF reunion 50 years in the making

PETALING JAYA: Fifty years ago, they were young recruits beginning their careers with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

On May 30, many of these men reunited at the Air Force Recreation Club at the RMAF Subang airbase, not only to celebrate a shared history but also to honour friendships that have endured for decades.

The reunion brought together former aircraftsmen from the RMAF’s 1976 intake, many of whom went on to serve in technical roles supporting the air force’s fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters.

For Warrant Officer I (Rtd) Chandirasekharan Subramaniyam, chairman of the organising committee, the gathering was “a proud reunion marking half a century of brotherhood, sacrifice, service and cherished memories”.

“Our camaraderie was built through dedication, courage, and our contribution to the nation and the RMAF,” the 70-year-old said.

Of the 62 recruits who began their journey together in 1976, only 26 remain today. The reunion, therefore, carried a bittersweet note, with attendees taking time to remember their 36 former comrades who have passed away.

“The deceased will always remain in our hearts, as their memories continue to inspire us,” Chandirasekharan expressed.

Attendees included former Subang air base commander Brigadier-General (Rtd) Parameswaran Thambipillay and former technical instructor Flight-Sergeant (Rtd) Athinathan Ponnusamy, both 84.

Also present were former 10 Squadron commanding officer Lt-Col (Rtd) Munisamy Arumugam, Lt-Col (Rtd) MV Sukumar Madavan Nair, and Major (Rtd) Victor Joe Joseph, who joined fellow veterans in sharing stories and memories from their years in service.

For many, the reunion offered a rare opportunity to reconnect with friends and mentors who had played important roles throughout their careers.

Chandirasekharan himself had a remarkable story. A former rotary-wing airframe technician specialising in the Alouette III and Nuri helicopters, he survived a Nuri helicopter crash in Simunjan, Sarawak, in 1981 – one of the defining moments of his service career.

He later pioneered the RMAF’s helicopter vibration specialist team before retiring after decades of service.

Outside the military, he earned recognition as a hockey goalkeeper who represented Sarawak in the Razak Cup, later becoming a national-class hockey referee and international cricket umpire.

Still, on this occasion, personal achievements took a back seat: the day, after all, was about closeknit bonds, shared experiences, and the kind of kinship that can only be nurtured through service.

“Our enduring friendship was forged through trials and tribulations. It reminds us of the strength of our unity and the pride with which we wore our uniforms,” Chandirasekharan said.

“We continue to uphold this spirit which has become our legacy, years after our retirement.”