A group of transvestites did
their duty and showed up for the annual military conscription lottery, but were
turned away.
Sajika Sanguansat & Phasakorn Channgam
Red and black cards held the fate of nearly 1,100 Pattaya-area men who lined up
in Banglamung to see if they would be conscripted into Thailand’s military.
The Royal Thai Army and Navy took 320 of the 1,099 conscripted at their annual
enlistment event April 9-10 at the Banglamung District Office. All Thai male
nationals at age 21 must submit themselves for the draft, although many are
turned away for not meeting physical requirements, excused for educational
reasons or dismissed due to too many applicants.
A group of transvestites in the crowd also found they were not welcome.

Recruiting official Kumthorn Tharawanchitr said a new law
took effect this year that exempts transsexuals from a requirement they obtain
certificates from doctors and psychiatrists to be excused from military service.
Transvestites still need a doctor’s form.
The men from Nongprue, Huay Yai, Nong Plalai, Khao Maikaew, Takientia, and Pong
sub-districts excitedly completed applications, took blood tests and physicals,
and were measured for height and weight.
The decision came down to a drawing of cards; red meant conscription and black
excused them. Families traditionally cheer on the drawing much like a sporting
event and, for many, a red card is welcomed.
Lt. Col. Peerapan Chuea-asa said every year a few straight men dress up as women
in hopes of being excused from service. It never works, he said.