100 years Scout of Thailand 1911-2011 - 100 ปี ลูกเสือไทย

Scouting was first introduced in Thailand on July 1, 1911 by King Rama VI, who is known as the Father of Thai Scouting. Thailand claims to be the third country in the world to establish Scouting,[2] but it was more likely fourth. King Rama VI received his education in England and was the first Thai monarch to have studied abroad. He graduated from Oxford University and also attended Sandhurst Military Academy. As a result of all this contact with Great Britain, he brought back with him many new ideas; one of them being Scouting. Back in Thailand, he first established the "Wild Tiger Corps" for adults and created a junior branch which continues today as the Scouts. King Rama VI is fondly remembered as the "Father of Thai Scouting" and every year on Scout Day, on July 1, Scouts pay homage to his image and take part in parades.

Thailand is the only country in the world where Scouting was directly founded by a monarch. It is also honored with being one of the Founder Members of the World Organization of the Scout Movement back in 1922. Scouting appeals to the people of Thailand and receives strong support from the Royal family and government, which has facilitated the steady growth and development of the organization. The present monarch, King Rama IX, is the Chief Scout and under his patronage, Scouting has flourished in Thailand. Thai Scouting has received much publicity due to its impressive work during emergencies. Such work includes taking part in ambulance and first aid teams, helping the Fire Brigade and assisting in flood control.[2]

Abhai Chandavimol served on the World Scout Committee of the World Organization of the Scout Movement from 1965 to 1971. Five Thais have been honored with the Bronze Wolf, the highest distinction of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, awarded for execeptional services to Scouting. Recipients and the year they received the Bronze Wolf are: Abhai Chandavimol (1971), Dansuputra Chitra (1976), Visudharomn Kong (1980), and Bhethai Amatayakul (1984), and His Majesty The King of Thailand Rama IX (2006).

Scouting and schools
Thai pupils in Scouting dress gathering at Na Wa High School, Nakhon Phanom province (Isan)

Scouting in Thailand is unique in that it is part of the school curriculum and receives strong support from the Thai government and people. Even the Royal Family are keen members. King Bhumibol (Rama IX) is the Chief Scout.

Although Scouting is part of the school program, especially for grades 6-8, it is not actually mandatory. Options do exist for participation in other youth programs, such as the Thai Red Cross; however, the vast majority of Thai youth participate in Scouting. Scouts wear their Scout uniforms to school once a week, though which day of the week is set by the local schools

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