Top military officers pay their respects to
a statue of Adm. Abhakara Kiartivongse, prince of Chumphon.
Patcharapol Panrak
Government and Royal Thai Navy officials marked the 90th
anniversary of the death of “father of the Thai navy” at separate
Sattahip ceremonies.
Royal Thai Marine Corp commander Adm. Khanat Thongpool presided over a
May 19 garland presentation ceremony to Adm. Abhakara Kiartivongse,
prince of Chumphon, in front of the marines’ headquarters.
An honor guard of nine fired 19 shots to honor the spirit of the prince,
who died May 19, 1923 at age 42. Servicemen sang royal anthems extolling
bravery, hard work and harmony.
Khanat joined Chonburi Dep. Gov. Adisak Thepass and Vice Adm.
Chainarong Chaorenrak, commander of the Sattahip Naval Base, at a second
ceremony where the public was invited to join in singing the anthems and placing
flowers at the base of the Prince Chumphon statue.
The prince studied naval warfare in England and returned to Siam during the time
of King Rama V to serve in the Royal Siamese Navy and contribute significantly
to the advancement and modernization of the service.
In addition to his career in the navy, the prince studied medicine and was
particularly interested in the use of herbal medicine in treating his patients.
As “Doctor Phon,” he provided medical treatment to people of all classes and
races.
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 warships 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.
