Pattaya, Thailand – December 19th, 2025
Pattaya City Police Station organized a traditional offering ceremony in front of the station to pay respects to His Royal Highness Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Chumphon, on the occasion known as “Abhakara Remembrance Day,” marking the anniversary of his birth.
The event honored the revered figure, widely known as the “Father of the Royal Thai Navy,” for his foundational contributions to modernizing Thailand’s naval forces.
The ceremony was presided over by Police Colonel Anek Sathongyu, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station. Attendees included Police Lieutenant Colonel Arut Saphanon, Deputy Superintendent of Investigations; Sukrach Kanlra, Vice Chairman of the Police Station Advisory Committee; Police Lieutenant Colonel Amorntep Maima, Traffic Inspector; members of the advisory committee; police officers from the station; and representatives from various media outlets.
Participants performed auspicious dances as offerings and set off 5,000 firecrackers in tribute, expressing reverence and gratitude for the prince’s enduring legacy.
His Royal Highness Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse was born on December 19th, 1880, to King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and Chao Chom Manda Mod. He passed away on May 19th, 1923. In 1893, he was sent to study naval sciences in England, where he excelled academically, demonstrating diligence and exemplary conduct that earned admiration from instructors and locals alike.
Upon returning to Thailand after graduation, he entered service in the Ministry of the Navy, receiving the rank of Lieutenant and holding several key positions. In 1905, as Director of Naval Education, he significantly reformed and advanced the Naval Academy, contributing to the long-term strength and development of the Royal Thai Navy.
The monument to the prince stands prominently in front of Pattaya City Police Station, where such ceremonies are held annually to commemorate his contributions.
