Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial, on 17 January, 1941, there was a Thai-French naval battle. It was one of the most important battles in the history of the Royal Thai Navy. Later, 17 January of every year was entitled as the Thai Navy Memorial Day in respect and reminiscence of the bravery of the 36 marines who sacrificed their lives for the independence and sovereignty of the nation. At that time, the French advantageously invaded the Thai territorial waters in the Ko Chang area with its 7 battleships; including, Lamotte-Picquet (with the displacement of 9,350 tons), 2 sloops and 4 gunboats, whilst the Royal Thai Navy only had 3; comprising, HTMS Thonburi, HTMS Songkhla, and HTMS Chonburi. Yet, the Royal Thai Navy had the spirit to fight bravely even though the battle ended with the sacrifice of 36 marine lives and all 3 battleships which sank into the sea. The Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial is situated on the Laem Ngop Beach area. It is in the same area as the Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak Monument, which faces towards the naval battleground. The Museum, as well as its surroundings, are decorated similar to a battleship. Inside the museum, there is the exhibition of the history of Krom Luang Chumphon, and the battle of the Franco-Thai naval battle. Annually, on 17 January, the Thai Navy Memorial Day ceremony will be arranged on Ko Chang to reminisce about the battle. The main activities include the Prince of Chumphon worshipping, and wreath floating from the Royal Thai Navy’s battleship in the Ko Lim area. Tourists can join the ceremony by contacting the Laem Ngop District Office at Tel. 0 3951 0491. To get there: Starting from the Amphoe Laem Ngop T-junction, go straight for 1 kilometre, turn right at the Rimtalay restaurant alley. Continue straight for about 500 metres, the Memorial will be on the left.
