A 64-year-old war veteran, Anusit, expressed his willingness to return to duty should Thai-Cambodian border tensions escalate again. This sentiment was shared during a War Veterans Day ceremony in Bangkok, commemorating the 42 Thai soldiers who died in last year’s border skirmishes. Anusit, along with 3,000 other veterans, attended the event at the Victory Monument, reflecting the enduring resolve among military retirees to protect national sovereignty.
Anusit has a long history of combat experience, having served from 1985 to 1987 in the clashes between Thai and Vietnamese forces and later against the Khmer Rouge. He asserted his readiness to fight once more if necessary, stating, “Death is death. If we fulfill our duty with honour and discipline, we are ready to do it for the nation and the people.” Anusit calls for respect towards veterans, emphasizing their sacrifices.
The ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and military leaders, also included solemn tributes to fallen soldiers, with their ashes interred at the monument. Prime Minister Anutin highlighted the significance of remembering the bravery of these soldiers, particularly in light of last year’s Thai-Cambodian confrontations. The conflicts resulted in Thailand losing 42 soldiers, marking a poignant chapter in recent military history.
Veteran Grandpa Chit, 80, also participated in the event, reminiscing about his past battles in Laos and Vietnam. He expressed uncertainty about his ability to attend future ceremonies, underscoring the advancing age of many veterans. Inside the Victory Monument, the ashes of 801 individuals who died in various conflicts are interred, with their names engraved as a testament to their sacrifices.
Future expectations include potential changes in ceremony formats, as the Veterans Day events this year differ from previous years by spanning three days with a “Night of Honour” theme. This adjustment reflects an evolving approach to recognizing the service and sacrifices made by veterans across generations, reported Thai PBS.
Key Takeaways
Anusit, a retired veteran, expresses readiness to fight if Thai-Cambodian tensions rise.
42 Thai soldiers were commemorated for their sacrifice in last year’s border clashes.
Veterans Day events now span three days, emphasizing honouring past and present service.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS 2026-02-04
