BANGKOK, Thailand – At precisely 12:00 noon on May 4, all three branches of the Thai Armed Forces united to fire a 21-gun royal salute across multiple ceremonial locations to mark Coronation Day (Wan Chatramongkol), paying tribute to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua on the anniversary of his official coronation.
At Sanam Luang, the Royal Thai Army, represented by the 1st Artillery Battalion, King’s Guard, executed a 21-gun salute using four 75mm field guns (Type 80) with coordinated timing to the royal anthem. Each gun fired at 5-second intervals in a right-to-left sequence, completing the salute in 1 minute and 40 seconds.
Simultaneously, at Fort Wichai Prasit within the Royal Thai Navy headquarters in Bangkok Yai, the Navy’s Marine Corps, under the 1st Infantry Battalion, King’s Guard, delivered the royal salute with 76/40 mm naval guns, maintaining ceremonial precision and respect.
Over in Don Mueang, at the Air Force Aviation Park, the Royal Thai Air Force carried out their own 21-gun salute led by the Air Defense Command, paying homage to the King and the enduring significance of the coronation ceremony.
Coronation Day, observed annually on May 4, commemorates the auspicious occasion of His Majesty’s coronation held on May 4, 2019, conducted in accordance with ancient royal traditions. This national holiday reminds Thai citizens of their deep-rooted loyalty to the monarchy and the solemnity of the royal institution.
The royal salute, or “salute,” is a long-standing military tradition globally, used to honor nations, flags, and distinguished individuals. The term “salute” derives from the Latin word Salutio, reflecting respect and reverence. In Thailand, the first documented royal salute occurred during the reign of King Narai the Great at Fort Wichaiyen, now known as Fort Wichai Prasit – the same location where the Navy continues this honored custom.
The 21-gun salute, in particular, is reserved for the highest honors, symbolizing unwavering respect for the King and the Thai monarchy. (TNA)
