Monks perform
religious ceremonies as top navy officials mark the Royal Thai
Fleet’s 89th Founder’s Day.
Patcharapol Panrak
The Royal Thai Fleet celebrated its Founder’s Day with top navy
officials and a merit-making ceremony.
Navy commandant Adm. Khanat Thongpool presided over the 89th annual
ceremony Dec. 19 at fleet headquarters in Sattahip. The navy also
celebrates the date as Apakorn Day, the birthday of the 19th
century’s HRH Abhakara Kiartivongse, the prince of Chumphon
considered the father of the Royal Thai Navy.
Founder’s Day for the Royal Thai Fleet traces its roots to 1923 when
a unit specializing in warships was founded under the name Royal
Thai Navy, reporting directly to the Ministry of Naval Officers,
with three warship fleets consisting of gun and torpedo squadrons
and warships.
It wasn’t until 1933 when the name Royal Thai Navy was changed to
Royal Thai Warship, reporting directly to the Ministry of Naval
Officers, until 1951, when the name was again changed to Royal Thai
Fleet.
At this year’s ceremony, ten monks were invited to perform religious
ceremonies, enjoy lunch and dedicate the merits to the soul of the
prince of Chumphon.
