The solemn ceremony took place at 1:30pm yesterday (June 26) at the Muslim cemetery in Baan Bang Malao, Sakhu, with Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Maj Gen Apinan Chaemchaeng, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division, presiding.
The burial was attended by officials, soldiers, police officers, Islamic religious leaders and grieving family members. The proceedings began with the Imam reciting Al-Fatihah, followed by a speech of gratitude from a family representative.
His Majesty’s royal representative then presented the national flag, Bang Rajan medals for bravery and a royal certificate to PFC Pakom’s family, in an atmosphere filled with mourning.
PFC Pakom, 22, served as a machine gunner with the 3rd Rifle Platoon, 1st Infantry Company, Special Operations Unit. He was fatally shot by a sniper during a security patrol in Baan Wang Hin, Bannang Sata District, Yala Province, on June 17. He died from his injuries while being transported to hospital.
His body was flown back to Phuket later that evening, where an honour guard from the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment formally received him. That night, his remains were taken to the Darul Abidin Mosque in Bang Malao for Islamic funeral rites, which were held the following morning.
The funeral was attended by military commanders, local officials and community members who gathered to pay their final respects. Among them were Thalang District Chief Siwat Rawangkun, Sakhu Mayor Trin Panyawai and senior police officers.
Last week, on June 19, Their Majesties the King and Queen also sent a royal gift basket to PFC Pakom’s family, a gesture of personal condolence and support, delivered by Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Phansengiam.
The final royal tribute yesterday ‒ the bestowal of burial soil ‒ is a high honour, reserved for those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation’s peace and security.
PFC Pakom’s family, friends and community members have expressed profound gratitude for the royal grace and recognition shown throughout their time of loss, said an official report of the event.