Bangkok: The Thai army paid tribute to its fallen soldiers in a poignant ceremony held during the annual Thai Armed Forces Day. The event, hosted by the Royal Thai Armed Forces, included a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 42 brave soldiers who lost their lives defending the Thai-Cambodian border. Families of the fallen soldiers were invited to participate in the commemorative event. According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony was presided over by General Ukrit Boontanon, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces. It was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from various branches of the military and government, such as the Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy, Royal Thai Air Force, and Royal Thai Police. Also in attendance were Military Attachés, Veterans Welfare Organization members, and families of the fallen heroes. The day's ceremonies were extensive, including tributes to historical figures and fallen warriors. Key events included paying homage to the monument of King Naresuan the Great, King Rama V, and the statues of nine great monarchs. A significant part of the ceremony was the laying of wreaths and garlands at plaques commemorating those who sacrificed their lives for the nation during the Thai-Cambodian conflict. This year's ceremony was particularly somber due to the recent 2025 Thai-Cambodian border conflict, which claimed the lives of 42 soldiers from all branches of the armed forces. The Thai Army held the ceremony to honor these heroes, ensuring their names are remembered as a source of national pride. A symbolic gesture during the ceremony included incorporating soil from the 11th battlefield along the Thai-Cambodian border, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of the fallen soldiers. An emotional highlight of the event was the presentation of memorials to the families of the fallen soldiers, many of whom were visibly moved. The Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces comforted the families and paid respects to each officer's photograph. He expressed gratitud e for the soldiers' ultimate sacrifice, emphasizing their roles as national heroes and a source of pride for their families. Following the ceremony, the Supreme Commander personally bid farewell to the families as they returned to their hometowns, saluting them in respect and gratitude. He also took time to thank the officers who participated in the event, showing his appreciation for their efforts. The memorial gift presented to the families was a statue symbolizing a soldier's life, featuring a rifle, helmet, and shoes, inscribed with "Heroes of the Thai Army who defend the Kingdom of Thailand." The names of the fallen officers, along with their posthumously awarded ranks, were engraved on a plaque as a testament to their bravery and dedication.