Cave hero promoted posthumously

BANGKOK, July 14 (TNA) - His Majesty the King has promoted Petty Officer 1st class Saman Gunan to the rank of lieutenant commander and bestowed a royal decoration on him after he died during the cave rescue mission. The former navy SEAL member was awarded the Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant, according to an announcement published in the Royal Gazette today. Saman earlier left his post at the Royal Thai Navy and became a security officer at Suvarnabhumi Airport. However, he decided to participate in the rescue operation after learning that the 13 persons were trapped inside the cave complex. The royally-sponsored funeral rites were held in full honour for him as the cremation ceremony is scheduled to start at 4 pm. today. (TNA)