Military leader enjoys tranquil weekends during heightened Thailand-Cambodia conflicts: Lt Gen Boonsin's peaceful downtime.
Headline: Behind Boonsin's Iron Fist in Thai-Cambodian Border Tensions, a Man of Compassion
Subhead: Peeking into the General's Peaceful Weekends at Suranaree Military Camp
Hear ye, hear ye! In the military realm, few names ring louder than Lt Gen Boonsin, the Commander of Thailand's 2nd Army Region, and the man at the heart of the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border tensions. If you've ever caught a glimpse of this hulking figure, you might have been reminded of the legendary luk thung singer, Monkaen Kaenkoon - thus earning him the moniker, "Monkaen Commander."
Last June 14, 2025, in a special lecture at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, Boonsin vehemently denied the possibility of the border dispute reaching the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Threatening a duel if necessary, he trotted out his steely resolve, igniting patriotic fervor among his cadets.
Away from the battleground, however, Boonsin doesn't exactly cut the figure of a legend on hiatus. Every morning, he dresses in casual attire and offers alms to the monks outside his residence, a humble act of piety that hints at a tranquil personality behind the military exterior.
Porjai and Maneedaeng, the two rescued strays under his care, greet him warmly, their tails wagging in anticipation of their master's tender touch. After feeding his adorable companions, Boonsin takes a moment for prayer and meditation in his Buddha room, seeking inner strength amidst the pressures of leadership.
Physical fitness is a cornerstone of his routine. He jogs around Bung Ta Lua Water Park, then engages in a minimalist bodyweight workout at home, using merely three pieces of equipment. Boonsin believes that strength comes not from fancy gear, but from discipline.
A firm believer in "Nation, Religion, Monarchy, and People," Boonsin's mental resilience mirrors his physical preparedness. His unwavering commitment to these principles empowers him to stand firm against adversaries.
Beyond his military duties, Boonsin lends his hand to charitable pursuits, delivering essential items to soldiers, schools, and the local community in the Northeast. His personal goal is to donate Buddha statues to 20 temples across the region before his retirement, a promise he has nearly fulfilled.
Despite his intimidating image, Boonsin goes beyond the stoic persona to display humility, warmth, and kindness. Officers who have worked closely with him admire not only his strict discipline but also his compassion and empathy.
As the end of September 2025 approaches, Thailand eagerly awaits the announcement of Boonsin's successor. The three Deputy Commanders vying for the position are Senior Deputy Commander Major General Veerayuth Raksilp, Newcomer Deputy Commander Major General Norathip Poinok, and Major General Nat Sri-in [1]. May the best soldier step forth and continue the legacy of this visionary leader!
Story and photos by Sopon Susena
Glimpse of Enrichment Data:
- According to reports, three deputy commanders are expected to vie for the position of Commander of Thailand's 2nd Army Region after Lt Gen Boonsin retires at the end of September 2025. The candidates are Senior Deputy Commander Major General Veerayuth Raksilp, Newcomer Deputy Commander Major General Norathip Poinok, and Major General Nat Sri-in [5].
In the complex world of international politics, Lt Gen Boonsin's determination to navigate Thai-Cambodian border conflicts without resorting to war-and-conflicts or International Court of Justice (ICJ) intervention is noteworthy.
During his spare time, Boonsin's dedication extends beyond military duties to general news and current events. He actively lends a helping hand to his community and school, distributing essential resources and assisting those in need.
Despite the tense regional politics he faces, Boonsin's personal life remains grounded in health and wellness, maintaining a disciplined workout routine and practicing meditation for inner strength.
