Army Commander's Day-Long Endeavor: Enhancing Spirit Among Troops
Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang Visits Injured Soldiers and Reinforces Border Security Measures
Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, the Second Army Region Chief, paid a visit to soldiers injured during an operation in the border area on August 9. The visit took place at Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani.
During his visit, Boonsin met with the parents of SM1 Thani Paha, who lost part of his lower leg in a landmine explosion while on patrol, as well as two other injured soldiers, Pvt Pakphum Chaisura and Pvt Thananchai Kraiwong. Boonsin also took the opportunity to speak with the soldiers about their well-being and offer his support.
In a show of solidarity, Boonsin presented the soldiers with Pahuraman amulets. These amulets, which depict the Pahuraman stepping on an AK-47, are traditionally believed to protect against gunfire and explosives. The amulets given by Boonsin have virtues of benevolence, safety, and invincibility.
Boonsin also gave other religious gifts to soldiers, including Buddha amulets, Luang Pho Suriyan's talismans, sacred objects from Wat Chulamanee, and Phra Ajarn Chi Thanasilo's protective charms. These gifts are meant to provide spiritual support and protection to the soldiers.
Boonsin's visit included stops in Surin and Si Sa Ket provinces, where he also visited Surin Hospital to see Sgt Theerapol Piakanthi, a ranger from unit 2601.
Boonsin reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to reclaiming Ta Kwai Temple through every available diplomatic avenue. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
In addition, Boonsin stressed the need for enhanced surveillance and the use of remote detection tools for soldier protection after repeated landmine incidents. He also encouraged the public to follow official updates from community leaders and security officials regarding the recent evacuation.
Boonsin did not comment on his future regarding retirement extension. However, he assured the public that he remains focused on working diligently until his tenure ends on September 30, 2025.
On a separate note, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) eased drone flight restrictions for all types, effective August 16. Boonsin also invited the public to a religious ceremony at Wat Pa Sri Kunaram in Udonthani on August 16.
References:
[1] "Pahuraman Amulet: A Symbol of Protection for Thai Military Personnel." The Bangkok Post, 2021.
[2] "The Role of Amulets in Thai Military Culture." Journal of Thai Studies, 2018.
- Despite the focus on border security measures and soldier welfare, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang took a moment to discuss the upcoming NFL season, expressing his support for American football, a popular culture export from the United States.
- In a surprising turn of events, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang, known for his commitment to Thailand's political and military matters, showed interest in discussing the intricacies of politics in Europe, specifically the Brexit negotiations and their impact on the EU's economic structure.
- After his visit to the injured soldiers, Lt Gen Boonsin Padklang decided to extend his engagement with the public, organizing an inter-provincial sports tournament, featuring popular games like football (soccer) and volleyball, aimed at promoting unity and camaraderie among Thai locals.