Bangkok: Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Thailand, conducted an official visit to the Royal Thai Army Headquarters, where he underscored the importance of supporting junior personnel and boosting morale. The visit, hosted by General Pana Klaewplodtuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, included a series of ceremonial and operational engagements.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham was ceremonially received and inspected an honor guard upon his arrival. The proceedings began with Mr. Phumtham boarding an M151 vehicle, accompanied by a 39-horse honor guard, for an inspection procession. Further into his visit, he paid respects to the statue of King Chulalongkorn and was awarded three honorary military proficiency badges: the Mine Warfare Badge, the Explosive Ordnance Disposer Badge, and the Army Pilot Flying Proficiency Badge.
During the visit, Mr. Phumtham also toured the Royal Thai Army Museum, which houses historical artifacts and showcases the Army’s
various roles and responsibilities. Notably, the museum highlights the ‘We Do Good with Our Hearts’ royal volunteer activity, emphasizing the selfless contributions of Royal Thai Army personnel.
Concluding his visit, Mr. Phumtham laid a wreath at the Army Memorial Wall and paid homage at the Kittikhajorn Auditorium. He also reviewed an exhibition detailing operations in areas such as the Royal Volunteer Project, the transition to a voluntary conscript system, and preparations for new soldier recruitment.