Pathum ratchawongsa: A royal cremation ceremony was held to honor the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect Thailand’s sovereignty. The atmosphere was filled with sadness, with many commanders, fellow soldiers, family members, and members of the public expressing their condolences.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony took place at Wat Khositaram in Lue Subdistrict, Pathum Ratchawongsa District, Amnat Charoen Province. Lt. Gen. Thawatchai Tangpitakkul, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army, presided over the royal cremation ceremony for Sergeant Major Kritsada Noikhot. Sergeant Kritsada died on July 25th during a clash on the Thai-Cambodian border at Prasat Ta Kwai in Surin Province. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Narong Thepsena, Governor of Amnat Charoen Province, commanding officers, government officials, and local residents who came to pay their final respects.
Sergeant Kritsada was a radio operator in the Suranaree Forces’ intelligence operation control unit. On the day o
f the incident, he was conducting a reconnaissance flight using a drone when he was killed by the explosion of an 82 mm grenade launcher from Cambodia.
Another royal cremation ceremony was held for Sergeant Major Jirayu Singh-on at Wat Talat Rajamangkol, Hua Chang Subdistrict, Chaturaphak Phiman District, Roi Et Province. General Nattawut Nakanakorn, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, presided over the ceremony. The event was attended by commanding officers, fellow soldiers, family members, and local residents. General Nattawut presented the Thai flag to the family, along with financial support and assistance from the Army and the government.
In Buriram Province, a ceremony was held to send the body of Sergeant Major (Special) Thirayut Sijuichai back to his hometown with full honors. The ceremony took place at Wat Noen Nimit, Seim Subdistrict, Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province. Maj. Gen. Santhat Chantmala, Commander of the 26th Military Circle, presided over the ceremony, which was att
ended by commanding officers, fellow soldiers, and Sergeant Major Thirayut’s wife, who mourned her loss.