The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army led the Army Day parade and solemnly took the oath before the flag of victory and glory, emphasizing that the success of every mission depends on every soldier's commitment to advancing the protection of the nation, religion, the monarchy, and the people.
On 18 Jan 2026 GMT+7, General Phana Klaewplaodtook, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, presided over the parade and oath-taking ceremony before the flag of victory and glory on the occasion of Army Day 2026 at the multipurpose ground of the Cavalry Center in Saraburi Province.
This year's parade force comprised 12 parade battalions from 4 regimental commands: the 31st Infantry Regiment, King's Guard; the 4th Cavalry Regiment, King's Guard; the 2nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Regiment; and the 71st Artillery Regiment. Major General Kitti Praphitpaisan, Commander of the 1st Division, King's Guard, commanded the combined formation.
General Phana led the oath before the flag of victory and glory: "I shall be willing to die for the freedom and peace of the nation. I shall live according to the moral precepts of religion. I shall uphold and protect the royal authority of His Majesty the King. I shall preserve the democratic system of government under the monarchy. I shall trust and strictly obey my superiors’ orders, and govern my subordinates with justice. I shall never betray military secrets."
General Phana then delivered a message, saying: "Dear comrades, Army Day and the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day are days of great honor and pride for all soldiers and the Thai people alike. They commemorate the royal grace of King Naresuan the Great and honor the heroic sacrifices of past warriors who defended the sovereignty and independence of the kingdom, securing it to this day."
He added: "It is also the day when all new recruits swear allegiance before the sacred flag of victory and glory, marking their full commitment as soldiers of the nation. I urge all to firmly uphold the solemn vows made, work together diligently with the ideals of a professional soldier marked by honor and dignity, physical and mental strength, and a public-spirited mindset, always aware that" "the success of every mission depends on each soldier, who plays a vital role in enabling the army to be ready to confront all forms of missions and threats, both internal and external, to protect and preserve the institution, sovereignty, and national interests, as well as the well-being of the people going forward."
Furthermore, General Phana read a message from the Supreme Commander, stating that 18 Jan is a highly significant day in Thai history. It commemorates the royal grace of King Naresuan the Great and the great heroism of forefather soldiers who sacrificed their lives to uphold the nation's independence. All Thai people remember their sacrifice, courage, and unwavering patriotism, ensuring future generations live in peace. It is a crucial duty for every soldier to recognize their responsibilities and carry forward the legacy of their ancestors through all eras.
The Royal Thai Armed Forces reaffirm their commitment to protect the nation, religion, and the monarchy, safeguard the people, and maintain national sovereignty, as well as to alleviate hardships to ensure the people's peace and happiness. Especially in the present time, the armed forces have united to defend sovereignty, protect national interests and the security of the people, sacrificing life and blood just as our forebears did.
. (Photo fromArmy Spoke Team)