Soldier Honored After Killed in Southern Border Operations
A 34-year-old ranger volunteer was honored in a formal ceremony after being killed during operations in Thailand's southern border region, with his mother recalling his premonitions about not returning home.
On July 24, 2025, Major General Kriangsak Wattanakirik, commander of the 43rd Army Infantry Region at Thaetsatree Srisunthon Camp in Tung Song district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, held a formal honor guard ceremony to receive the body of volunteer ranger Nathsit Kaewsenao, 34, belonging to Ranger Company 4509, Battalion 45. Kaewsenao died in the line of duty in Rangae district, Narathiwat, during operations in Thailand's three southern border provinces. His body was then conveyed to Manao Wan Royal Temple in Chang Klang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, for merit-making ceremonies. Royal wreaths on behalf of His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Queen, and various members of the Thai royal family were presented before the casket by representatives including Deputy Governor Theeraphong Chuaichoo. Government officials, military personnel, members of the public, and the deceased's family attended the ceremony conducted according to royal funeral protocols. The deceased's mother, Sompon Kaewsenao, recalled that her son was deeply concerned about his family, especially his two children and her aging health. During his last visit home, he urged his younger sister to pass the sergeant examination so she could support their mother after he was gone, saying, 'You must pass that exam so you can take care of our mother. I won't be around much longer.' No one realized those words would be his final farewell.
