Former army commander and supreme commander Gen Arthit Kamlang-ek died yesterday morning at Phra Mongkut Hospital. He was 89.
A royally-sponsored bathing rite will be held today at Wat Benjamabopit where funeral rites will take place for 10 days.
Arthit: Worked with Gen Prem
Gen Arthit had been in hospital since August last year, said his son, Lt Gen Thitiwat Kamlang-ek, a specialist at the Defence Permanent Secretary's Office and National Reform Council member. He died of a lung infection.
Dubbed by the media as "Big Sun", Gen Arthit served as army chief and the supreme commander when Gen Prem Tinsulanonda was prime minister in the 1980s. Their relationship soured after he criticised Gen Prem's government over the devaluation of the baht.
Gen Arthit was removed from the army's top post shortly after and replaced by Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh.
Lt Gen Thitiwat yesterday visited Gen Prem, the Privy Council president, at his home. Gen Prem will officiate at the bathing rite today on His Majesty the King's behalf.
He said his father was a humble man and good soldier who put the people's interests before his own and was loyal to the monarchy.
"He told us not to pull rank or exploit any privileges. He was a great father," Lt Gen Thitiwat said.
He said the family felt proud when Gen Arthit became known as the "Hero of Makkhawan", for his role in halting clashes between troops and civilians amid unrest in 1957.