In a sorrowful turn of events, the senior civil servant community mourns the peaceful passing of Mr. Narongsak Osotthanakorn, Pathum Thani Province Governor, at 6:00 p.m. due to cancer at Siriraj Hospital. The news comes as a shock, considering his commendable leadership during the renowned Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non cave rescue mission in Chiang Rai province back in June 2018.
Born on June 1, 1965, in Plaeng Yao District, Chachoengsao Province, Mr. Narongsak’s contributions began early in his life. He completed his secondary education at Saint Louis School in Chachoengsao and continued to excel at Bodindecha (Sing Singhaseni) School in Bangkok. In 1985, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Kasetsart University, followed by a Master’s Degree in Geometry and Surveying from Ohio State University in the United States in 1988.
His career in government service commenced under the Ministry of Interior, where he held various notable positions such as Director of the Map Data Center and Director of the Mapping Technology Bureau. Additionally, he served as an engineering surveying consultant at the Department of Lands. Mr. Narongsak’s expertise extended to his involvement as a chairman and expert in several government agencies, including the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Public Organization), the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and the election commission.
In 2016, he was appointed as an Inspector General of the Ministry Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. The following year, he assumed the role of governor of Chiang Rai, where his leadership would soon be tested on a global scale. The gripping rescue operation unfolded as the Wild Boars Academy team, consisting of 13 young footballers and their coach, became trapped in Tham Luang – Khun Nam Nang Non cave. Mr. Narongsak swiftly took command of the mission, ultimately ensuring the safe rescue of all 13 individuals. His remarkable efforts earned him the moniker “Governor of Wild Boars.”
Subsequently, he served as the governor of Phayao Province in 2018 before transitioning to the position of Lampang governor in 2019. Finally, in 2021, he was appointed as the governor of Pathum Thani, where he diligently carried out his duties until his untimely passing.
The legacy of Governor Narongsak Osotthanakorn will forever be intertwined with the extraordinary rescue operation that captured the world’s attention. His unwavering commitment to public service and leadership in times of crisis will be remembered by all who were touched by his remarkable life.
