The Thai Army in Phitsanulok (Part 3)
Perhaps the title would be better: “The Never Ending Story”. Nephew was able to spend 8 days in his hometown of Chiangmai with the family.
The only positive news is that after his national service he will probably be able to continue his studies at the 'Far Eastern University' after deliberation. I have the impression that there is cooperation from the rector and his team, but that it will also be a matter of money. This will show in the future.
Poor living conditions for conscripts
The barracks may have its charm for some, but the living conditions for the conscripts are subpar. Food is almost the same every day, a kind of rice pudding with vegetables and meat or chicken in very small quantities. In this soup a number of grease eyes / circles that I think indicate that these are potency-reducing agents.
Most soldiers have barely studied, come from farming families and suffer their fate. The few who do have some background, life is made miserable by the lowest rank, say the training experts and this with the approval of the higher officers. This is how the system is maintained for the next generations, that is clear.
Comments may not or hardly be made, otherwise you will be "shit" in front of the whole group by these fallen corporals. So shut up is the message here.
No future
Cousin is back in the barracks and has resumed his “service”. However, upon arrival at the barracks, his sleeping place had been taken by another conscript. The leadership had clearly said before the holiday that there is no future for him in the army and that he had not understood the message. There is clearly a difference of opinion. When someone is fired or has not completed his military service, it is almost impossible to be employed in the government services at a later stage. Finally, after a night of sleeping on the floor, this was arranged again.
This is one of the reasons Cousin reluctantly stays in the Army for his further term, difficult though it may be. Trying to participate in the activities as much as possible, given his medical history, is the best way to appease the management.
On return there was a random medical examination to ensure no drugs were used during the holiday. This also seems to be a huge problem there.
There will be several negative stories to emerge, we will report further at a later stage.