His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn has presented posthumous honors to former Thai Navy Seal diver Saman Kunan, who died while involved in the cave rescue this month.
The king presented the Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant medal to the diver’s family, and posthumously promoted him to Lieutenant Commander.
Saman Kunan, 38, retired from the military more than ten years ago. He had worked at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport. Saman joined the rescue operation as a volunteer.
A rise of four or five ranks is envisaged by the Thai Mandatory Military Service Law for active duty military personnel and those killed in action. Apart from the honor, it involves a higher pension for the deceased officer’s family. Kuman was not on active service and his seven-rank promotion was unprecedented.
Established in 1861 by King Rama IV, the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant is one of oldest in Thailand. It consists of eight classes and is awarded to government officials for each five years of service.
