Phuket Navy base swaps top brass

PHUKET: After three years at the helm, Royal Thai Navy Vice Admiral Taratorn Kajitsuwan has been transferred from his post as the commanding officer at Phuket’s Third Area Command, the leading naval base for the entire Andaman coast.

An assembly of sailors welcomed his replacement, Rear Admiral Sayan Prasongsamrej, at a handover parade at the base at Cape Panwa yesterday.

“I give my word that I will command the base with fairness,” R/Adm Sayan vowed. “The benefit of the nation and the Royal Thai Navy will be my first priority.

“I have confidence that every officer will give me the support needed to advance our nation and the Third Area Command together.”

V/Adm Taratorn welcomed R/Adm Sayan and wished him luck.

“I am glad to welcome R/Adm Sayan to his new position… R/Adm Sayan has been doing a great job for the Royal Thai Navy. I am sure he will lead the Third Naval Area Command to a better future.”

V/Adm Taratorn spoke highly of his comrades in Phuket.

“It has been my honor to work at the base,” he said. “I would like to thank everybody for always being very cooperative. I am thankful for the sacrifices you have made. I wish you all the best and a happy life.”

V/Adm Taratorn will take up his new position at the Royal Thai Navy headquarters in Bangkok, effective today.

His transfer was announced as part of the nationwide transfer and promotion of government officials, which takes place annually on October 1.

— Chutharat Plerin