Prem lauds military's flood efforts

Yuthasak yesterday led the top brass in wishing a Happy New Year to Prem.
Military commanders, including General Sathien Permthong-in, General Thanasak Patimapakorn, General Prayuth Chan-ocha, Admiral Surasak Runruangwong and Air Chief Marshal Itthaporn Suphawong, turned up in force.
In addressing his well-wishers, Prem duly noted the positive sentiments heaped on the armed forces in the face of the crisis, and said he felt the military pride had rubbed off on him as well.
“I am confident that so long as the armed forces are unified, consolidated and dignified, the military can well handle any situations,” he said.
He said his New Year wish was to see the military commanders remain strong and cooperative with one another to carry on their duties and uphold the country’s revered institution.
Regardless of the New Year, if all Thai citizens were patriots and did not allow differences to cause divisiveness, then a lot of headaches would dissipate, he said.
After leaving Prem’s residence, Yuthasak, in turn, received New Year greetings from the top brass at the Army Officers’ Club.
In the four months they |have worked on flood relief operations, the armed forces had proved themselves by carrying out their duties effectively in a non-partisan manner, he said.
He urged the top commanders to follow Prem’s advice on upholding the monarchy – and he pledged to strengthen the armed forces.
He said he would do his job without being distracted by speculation that he might be shuffled out in the next Cabinet line-up.
“I don’t fight to keep my job, but will do everything in my power to do what is best for the military with my hope, at least, of seeing the armed forces as a shield for the lady prime minister,” he said.