Hero’s welcome for Thai rescue team returning from quake-hit Turkey
The Thai search and rescue team that joined the global effort to retrieve earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria returned to a hero’s welcome on Saturday, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presenting each member – including the sniffer dogs – with a medal.
The Urban Search and Rescue Team arrived at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport at about 10am on a Turkish Airline flight from Istanbul.
Applause and appreciation was given to its 42 people and two sniffer dogs: Sierra and Sahara. The Golden Retrievers are certified rescue dogs by the International Rescue Dog Organisation.
General Prayut welcomed the rescue team on behalf of the Thai people and government. A large crowd of media and well-wishers, including senior public officials, gathered to welcome the Thai team home.
The team, which joined the search and rescue operation on February 9, included personnel from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, the Department of Medical Services, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
Prayut thanked all the parties involved in sending the Thai rescue team to Turkey.
The effort was a first for Thailand and the team made the country proud in its swift ability to provide humanitarian aid to quake victims, he said.
“You all are heroes. I admire your sacrifice,” Prayut told the team.
“Please give them another round of applause,” he told the crowd greeting them.
The team was formed on short notice after a quick decision by the government to send a rescue team to Turkey, Prayut said.
The swift mobilisation demonstrates Thailand is prepared to lend a hand overseas, the prime minister said, adding: “The recent earthquake disaster in Turkey and Syria drew a unified effort from around the world for disaster relief.”
He later presented medals of recognition to all members of the rescue team, including Sierra and Sahara.
The prime minister was heard saying “this is for you” while giving each Golden Retriever a medal. He also shook hands with their handlers and thanked them personally.
