American siblings reunite with Thai hero who once saved their family

After more than five decades apart, three American siblings have finally reunited with a Thai benefactor who looked after them when they were young, while living with their father, an American GI stationed at a US airbase in Ubon Ratchathani province during the Vietnam War.

The story of the happy reunion was reported to local media over the weekend by the three Butland siblings; Raoul, 66, Lisaree, 63, and Mark, 62, along with the Thai man, 80-year-old Poon Pong-aree.

Raoul said their father worked as a news announcer for a TV station at the US airbase in Ubon Ratchathani.

Poon, who at the time worked as a tricycle driver, befriended their father and helped the American family find a rented house as well as a private school for the two boys and one girl during their 13-month stay.

Raoul added that Poon, who was also a Muay Thai boxer, taught the two boys how to box.

Mark recalled an incident in which the family was invited to attend a wedding in Laos and was intimidated by Vietnamese troops at the event.

He said Poon and his wife intervened and hurried the family to a temple, where they hid overnight before returning to Ubon Ratchathani the following day.

The family returned to the United States in 1972 and lost contact with Poon thereafter.

Mark said that even after their parents passed away, they never forgot Poon’s family and remained deeply grateful for the kindness and help they received while living in Thailand.

After 53 years without contact, the siblings decided to return to Thailand last year to search for Poon and his family. Mark admitted they were unsure whether Poon was still alive and had no information about his whereabouts.

Nevertheless, the three Americans returned to Ubon Ratchathani to continue their search.

News of their mission was picked up by a local reporter, who mobilised volunteers and an interpreter to assist.

About three days later, good news came from the mayor of Muang district, Pittaya Chaisongkram, who informed them that Poon was still alive and living in Kanthararom district of Si Sa Ket province.

At the time, Mark was in hospital receiving treatment for a fractured foot when the mayor handed him her cellphone with Poon on the line.

“It was the moment we had been waiting for,” he was quoted as saying.

After learning of Poon’s whereabouts, the American family and local media visited him at his home.

The siblings and Poon embraced in a joyful and emotional reunion.

An Isan-style traditional welcoming ritual, involving the tying of threads around the wrists of the three Americans, was held at Poon’s house.

The siblings later took Poon to a district hospital for a medical checkup.

Mark told the media they were deeply sorry for taking so long to return and express their gratitude to Poon, whom they regard as their late father’s brother.

Poon said he was very happy and proud that the three Americans had not forgotten him after so many years.