Mother of Tham Luang hero honoured

HRH Princess Soamsawali, presiding over the ceremony yesterday on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, handed over the award. Her Majesty is not just the mother of the current monarch, but is also considered the mother of the nation.
Samran’s son, former Navy SEAL Saman Kunan, died on July 6 while helping rescue 12 young Mu Pa football team members and an assistant coach from the treacherously flooded Tham Luang cave in Chiang Rai province. 
Saman’s passing saddened not just his family, but the entire country, and he has since then been named the Tham Luang Hero. 
His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn promoted Saman posthumously – elevating him to the rank of lieutenant commander.
“As his mother, I am proud of his sacrifice,” Samran said, adding that she had always encouraged her son to do good deeds and contribute to society. 
“I am glad and honoured to have received the award today,” she said. 
However, she admitted that she missed her son every single day. 
“He’s my only son,” she said. 
This year, the award has been handed out to 225 outstanding mothers and 108 dutiful children. The award is handed out every year as part of National Mother’s Day – which is marked on August 12, Her Majesty the Queen’s birthday every year. 
Singer Kanyarat “Lula” Tiyapornchai was one of the award recipients yesterday, for being a dutiful daughter. She has always engaged her mother in various fun activities, and has also made sure her mother got special treatment on Valentine’s Day. 
“With this award, I am going to take care of my mum even more,” she said.