"Luang Pho Boonsin" led a group of monks in merit-making at the Ta Khwai border to dedicate merit to the "brave war heroes" who died during the clashes between Thailand and Cambodia"
At 07:09 on 13 Nov 2026 GMT+7, reporters reported that at Phra Yai Hill near the Ta Khwai Sanctuary in Bakdai Subdistrict, Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province, a merit-making ceremony was held to offer rice and dry food alms, along with Buddhist rites to dedicate merit to the soldiers who died during border clashes in the Century Operation and Yutbodin Operation, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the heroes defending Thai territory.
The ceremony was honored by seven monks, led by Phra Thep Wachirayan Sophon (Yuen Khantiwalo), abbot of Wat Khao Sala; Phra Maha Thaweesuk Apisukho, district chief monk of Prasat and assistant abbot of Wat Burapha Ram Royal Monastery; Phra Khrupanom Silachan (Luang Ta San), abbot of Wat Pa Khao To; and Phra Boonsin Chotipanyo (former Commander of the 2nd Army Region), along with three other subdistrict chief monks, who conducted religious rites and led Buddhists in almsgiving.
Present were Colonel Phakphum Napagat, commander of Task Force 2; Lieutenant Colonel Sarayut Malasai, commander of the 22nd Infantry Battalion, Task Force 2; other local commanders; troops on border defense duty; government officials; and local residents, all participating in the ceremony together.
The atmosphere was peaceful and filled with faith, marked by smiles and heartfelt warmth from both soldiers and civilians who joined in merit-making at the border, united in their support for the troops and remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives to protect national sovereignty.
After the ceremony at the Ta Khwai Sanctuary, Luang Pho Boonsin Chotipanyo, former Commander of the 2nd Army Region, along with Phra Thep Wachirayan Sophon (Luang Pho Yuen), abbot of Wat Khao Sala, proceeded to Hill 350, the site of the Sergeant Roeng Memorial. There, the monks performed a water-pouring ceremony to dedicate merit and express condolences, recalling Sergeant Roeng’s courage and extending blessings to the spirits of all fallen heroes.
Luang Pho Boonsin then kindly gave blessings to the troops and presented sacred objects to soldiers stationed at the Ta Khwai Sanctuary and Hill 350 as auspicious tokens and encouragement to continue their mission defending sovereignty along the border.
This visit and religious ceremony reflect the deep care and close bond among monks, soldiers, and local communities at the border, all united in support of the troops on duty and in honoring the value of life, sacrifice, and bravery of the heroes who stand firm to protect Thai land, ensuring lasting peace for the people.