Salute to "Sergeant Toe," the valiant warrior of Khao Satta Som, offerings made in honor of his selfless act for his comrades in arms
Heroic Thai Soldier 'Sergeant Toe' Honoured for Bravery During 2025 Thai-Cambodian Border Conflict
Sergeant Major Thawatchai Busapha, better known as "Sergeant Toe" or by his callsign "Fahlan," was a brave Thai frontline scout who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 2025 Thai-Cambodian border conflict at the Khao Satta Som military base in Kantharalak District, Si Sa Ket Province [1][2][3].
He led a small group of artillery scouts, responsible for identifying targets and coordinating artillery fire. This dangerous role made him a prime target for the enemy, but Sergeant Toe's courage never wavered. His critical surveillance and coordination helped prevent enemy tanks from advancing and protected hundreds of Thai soldiers during fierce fighting that began on July 24, 2025.
Despite the overwhelming firepower, Sergeant Toe continued to alert his comrades and organize defense until a tank shell tragically struck his bunker, taking his life [1]. His bravery and sacrifice were formally honoured by the Royal Thai Army as pivotal in defending the Thai positions during the conflict [1].
Suttipong Pongwan, a fellow soldier, shared a heartfelt tribute to Sergeant Toe, praising his bravery and dedication. He stated that Sergeant Toe's bravery will never fade, even though he is no longer with them [4]. On July 24, 2025, Sergeant Toe identified and neutralised threats that could have endangered the lives of hundreds or even thousands of soldiers [5]. His actions helped prevent tanks from advancing into the area during the conflict [6].
Sergeant Toe's actions also resulted in significant losses for the enemy throughout the day and night of July 24, 2025 [7]. Tensions continued on the Thai-Cambodian border after a midnight ceasefire deal [8]. Sergeant Toe was stationed at Khao Satta Som, a critical high ground along the border, where he conducted vital surveillance [9].
Sergeant Toe's service spanned over 12 years, and he was known as the "King of the Battlefield" for his dedication and courage [10]. His fellow soldiers vowed to honour his memory by continuing to fight in the midst of the chaos [3]. The fighting escalated on July 25, with enemy forces using tanks, artillery, and rockets [2].
[1] Royal Thai Army honours fallen hero Sergeant Toe [2] Thai-Cambodian border conflict escalates as tanks and artillery are used [3] Comrades vow to honour Sergeant Toe's memory [4] Heartfelt tribute shared by Sergeant Toe's fellow soldier [5] Sergeant Toe identifies and neutralises threats to protect hundreds of soldiers [6] Sergeant Toe helps prevent tanks from advancing into the area [7] Enemy suffers significant losses due to Sergeant Toe's actions [8] Tensions continue on the Thai-Cambodian border after ceasefire deal [9] Sergeant Toe stationed at critical high ground on Thai-Cambodian border [10] Sergeant Toe, the "King of the Battlefield"
Political discussions surrounding the 2025 Thai-Cambodian border conflict expanded to the international stage, with the bravery and sacrifice of Sergeant Toe becoming a topic of general news. Moreover, the business community recognized the importance of Sergeant Toe's actions, as his efforts in preventing enemy advancement could have had significant economic impacts.
