Lives lost in clashes with Cambodia mourned

Condolences have poured in from across the country for the families of five Thai soldiers who lost their lives in the escalating Thai-Cambodian border clashes that erupted on Thursday.

They were praised for their bravery and sacrifice in defence of the nation.

Among the fallen was Private Waranchit Yuangsuwan, a second-round conscript of 2023 assigned to the 13th Infantry Battalion under the 210th Military Circle in Nakhon Phanom province.

He was killed in action on July 24 while on duty along the Thai-Cambodian border in Kantharalak district, Si Sa Ket province.

On the following day, Sergeant Major Thawatchai Buspha, a senior artillery officer from the 6th Field Artillery Battalion, 106th Company, was killed during an attack on the Fah Lan military outpost, also in Si Sa Ket.

Sergeant Jirayu Sing-on, nicknamed “Nong James,” was also among the casualties.

His wife posted a heartfelt tribute, alongside a photo of the couple: “I know you gave your all in duty. I love you with all my heart.”

Sergeant Jirayu, a native of Roi Et province, had been married for just three years. He was stationed at Ta Khwai Temple, one of the border sites involved in the conflict, where he was helping defend Thailand’s territorial sovereignty.

Two other soldiers, Sergeant Noppadon Boonlert and Sergeant Krisada Noikot, both members of the 6th Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol Company, 6th Infantry Division, were killed during an armed confrontation with Cambodian troops near Ta Khwai Temple, close to the Thai-Cambodian border.