Bangkok: Deputy Minister of Defense emphasizes taking full care of welfare of military personnel who sacrifice for the country. The Deputy Minister of Defense has underscored the importance of the welfare of military personnel, focusing on those who have sacrificed their bodies and lives in service to the country. He has tasked the Royal Thai Army and the National Security Council with considering the employment of “Private Sergeant Thanapat,” a soldier with exceptional abilities as a Khmer language interpreter, to maximize his potential in service.
According to Thai News Agency, Col. Weerayut Nomsiri, deputy spokesman of the Ministry of Defense, addressed public concerns regarding the welfare and compensation of military personnel. He highlighted that Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Defense, is deeply concerned about the safety and rights of military personnel across the country. Gen. Nattapol has directed that military personnel’s entitlements be handled comprehensively, following all regulations.
Col. Weerayut elaborated that Thai soldiers are currently deployed in high-risk areas, including the Thai-Cambodian border and the southern provinces under states of emergency or martial law. Soldiers injured or killed in these areas are entitled to compensation as per their rights, including a one-time lump sum, monthly payments, special pensions for heirs, promotions, and other benefits. While specific details of the compensations are not disclosed due to privacy reasons, the process is described as transparent and systematic.
He further mentioned the case of Private Thanapat Huiwan, who lost some organs due to a landmine explosion while on patrol. In recognition of his dedication and patriotic spirit, Gen. Nattapol is considering offering him continued employment in the military. Private Thanapat, who volunteered for military service, exemplifies the army’s commitment to transforming “burdens into power,” a policy aimed at supporting disabled veterans to achieve stable and independent lives.
Col. Weerayut also noted that Private Thanapat has served as a Khmer language interpreter for his unit on numerous occasions. There is potential for him to be reassigned to a unit under the War Veterans Organization under Royal Patronage (WVO) to continue contributing effectively to national service.