The Eastern Seaboard was awash in a sea of yellow shirts and flags as Thais celebrated the 70th anniversary of HM the King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s ascension to the throne.
In Nongprue, Mayor Mai Chaiyanit led about 200 Pattaya-area residents in the sub-district’s ceremony June 9. Stanzas were read, incense lit, homage paid to the Triple Gems, and flower cones presented before a portrait of His Majesty.
The ceremony showed gratefulness for HM the King, who has adhered to the 10 royal virtues and worked all his life on behalf of Thai people, fulfilling a pledge to “reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people”.
In Chonburi, Gov. Khomsan Ekachai led a ceremony in which monks chanted and the governor placed flowers before a portrait of HM the King. He was followed by other well-wishers wanting to pay respect to His Majesty at Chalermprakiat Pavilion.
Later in the day, Khomsan was joined by Sriracha District Chief Worayan Boonnarach and Suriya Sangpong, director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo to plant trees in HM the King’s name at the zoo’s wildlife sanctuary on Khao Chompoo.
In, all, 7,000 seedlings were planted by hundreds of civil servants, military personnel and private citizens across 15 rai of park land.
In Sattahip, Capt. Saman Kantaphan, commander of the Naval Recruit Training Center led a community cleanup in honor of HM the King.
About 1,000 sailors and residents, led by Sattahip Mayor Siriporn Pinlom swept through Kledkaew municipality, focusing on Khao Bampenboon Temple and Kledkaew School.
The navy also hosted a lunch for students to make merit on the auspicious day.
HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej ascended the throne on June 9, 1946. He was officially crowned just shy of four years later, on May 5, 1950, which is celebrated at Coronation Day.
