Civil Police Soldier Monument

Standing in Thung Chang district near Nan’s border with Laos, the Civil Police Soldier Monument honours the civilians, police officers, and soldiers who died defending this remote frontier during Thailand’s communist insurgency. Heavy fighting swept Thung Chang from the 1960s into the 1970s, and more than 600 people from all three groups lost their lives. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit presided over the monument’s opening on 10 February 1976 — a date still marked each year by a commemoration ceremony. The memorial stands as both a place of remembrance and a symbol of the community’s resilience through one of its hardest chapters.

Three life-sized statues — one civilian, one police officer, and one soldier — stand together raising the Thai flag, set on a black marble base that anchors the memorial. Visitors can walk around the structure to read the inscriptions and plaques recording the events and the names of the fallen. An adjacent military museum displays weapons, equipment, and photographs from the anti-communist conflict, giving context to the struggle these statues commemorate. The surrounding grounds are well-maintained, with manicured gardens and walkways that invite quiet reflection.

A sense of reverence permeates the site, making it a place for contemplation rather than casual sightseeing. The peaceful atmosphere encourages visitors to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made here. Many locals come to pay their respects, especially during important national holidays or memorial days, adding to the monument’s significance as a living part of the community’s collective memory.

Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the most comfortable experience, as the northern climate can be quite warm during midday hours. The monument is in Thung Chang town, about 90 km north of Nan city, so your own vehicle is the easiest way to get there. Dress respectfully when visiting, avoiding shorts or sleeveless tops as a mark of respect for the memorial’s solemn purpose. This site offers valuable insight into a turbulent chapter of Thailand’s recent history and the people who lived through it.