"Petty Officer 1st Class Apikhom" reveals strong morale of frontline soldiers in Trat.

Today (March 26, 2026) at 10:40 AM, at Ban Tha Sen - Thomoda, Trat Province, Petty Officer 1st Class Apikhom Kaewlaeard, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon, Supply and Service Company, Marine Corps Support Regiment, Royal Thai Marine Corps Command, gave an interview regarding the current morale after the two recent battles. He stated that the morale of all the soldiers is high, although he was not in the combat zone, as he is part of the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) operation, clearing landmines in the area. He also mentioned that the infantry soldiers are very resilient, having to sleep on the ground and eat in harsh conditions. He noted that during the initial stages of the conflict, everyone had to sleep on the ground and eat in harsh conditions, but now bases are being built for the soldiers to sleep in. Furthermore, continuous security measures are being deployed along the entire perimeter. And there is a long line along the entire length.

When asked if there were any other concerns, Petty Officer 1st Class Apikom said that Thailand is a peace-loving country. If no one attacks us first, we will not attack anyone first. However, after the clash, Mr. Kanthas Pongpaiboonvech, or Kan Chomphang, placed shipping containers as a barrier between Thailand and Cambodia, but they are still being harassed by the Cambodian side, both by Chinese residents in Cambodia and by Cambodians themselves, who constantly provoke them. Currently, there is nothing to worry about because we remain calm. Whoever remains calm longer will win. We must remain calm.

When asked whether the area has been completely cleared of landmines or dangerous objects buried underground, Petty Officer 1st Class Apikom said that it has not yet been cleared. According to the principle, we must first establish a strong defensive barrier. If another clash occurs, the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) officers will have to work with composure and extreme caution, as EOD teams cannot operate during combat. Therefore, we must rely on the strength of the infantry soldiers who are acting as a protective barrier for us. This will allow us to clear the area behind the lines and return the land to the Thai people.