FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
nationthailand

Finding them was difficult but bigger challenge could lie ahead

Finding them was difficult but bigger challenge could lie ahead

For one day at least I think we can set aside our increasingly pointless and petty squabbling over issues such as politics and dietary preferences and instead give thanks that the young footballers and their coach have been found alive and apparently well.

This gripping saga has of course produced its own element of squabbling and fake news, with, for example, controversy surrounding the visit to the site of General Prayut and other VIPs, but let’s face it, if he hadn’t turned up, some would have accused him of not caring. But it doesn’t matter. 
Nor does it matter that, according to some reports, the Chiang Rai Governor ignored the role of the British rescuers, and instead claimed that the boys were found by the Thai Navy Seals. That might make some people hot under the collar, but not, I am sure, the rescuers themselves. 
From what I have gleaned from media reports over the years, these specialist rescue teams, irrespective of nationality, don’t do what they do just to bask in the limelight, or receive plaudits. They are a special breed of people, possessed of exceptional levels of courage, skill and resourcefulness to which few of us could aspire. It would seem their job is not done – getting the boys safely out of the cave might be even more challenging than finding them, so our prayers should continue.
Robin Grant

nationthailand