2020-01-18 Sat

January 18 in Thailand is the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day (Wan Kong Thap Thai). The day commemorates King Naresuan of Siam’s victorious elephant duel against the Burmese Uparaja in which he killed Crown Prince Mingyi Swa. The holiday was annually observed on January 25, but the date was changed in 2007 to 18th January.

Naresuan was the King of the Ayutthaya Kingdom from 1590 and the overlord of Lan Na from 1602 until his death in 1605. He is known for his campaigns to free Ayutthaya from the vassalage of the Taungoo Empire. During his reign, numerous wars were fought against Taungoo Burma. In one such battle, Naresuan was able to defeat the Burmese prince.

The Armed Forces consist of Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy and Royal Air Force. The Royal Thai Armed Forces defend the independence and territorial integrity of Thailand. It is also charged in the protection of the monarchy of Thailand against all domestic and foreign threats.

On August 6, 2015, Thailand Post issued a single stamp to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Royal Thai Army Training Command. The 3-baht stamp was designed by Taneth Ponchaiwong and depicts Thai soldiers and the tank unit.

Image Courtesy: https://www.stampsac.com

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