New armed forces chiefs take office

BANGKOK, October 1 (TNA) - Thailand's new armed forces chiefs are among government officials who take their new offices on October 1. At the Royal Air Force Academy, Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong on Wednesday handed over his air force chief position to his successor Air Chief Marshal Trithos Sonjaeng and asked air force officers to develop the Royal Thai Air Force to be a leader in the region, while his successor promised to proceed with the Royal Thai Air Force's strategies, boost ties with friendly nations and support the government. At the Royal Thai Navy headquarters in the capital's Thonburi side, Admiral Narong Pipatanasai passed on his Navy chief position to Admiral Kraisorn Jansuwanit, while the new Navy chief encouraged subordinates to devote themselves to their work and be proud of their naval services. New Army chief General Udomdej Sitabutr, who succeeded General Prayuth Chan-ocha, vowed to protect national sovereignty and the royal institution, maintain border peace and sound relations with neighboring countries, ensure national peace and discuss different stances and ideas through forums organized by the National Reform Council (NRC). (TNA)