Great news about the boy soccer players.

[poshglasgow]

I am sure that most members welcomed the news that the twelve Thai soccer lads have been discovered deep within the caves in Northern Thailand. Fantastic news and hats off to the bravery of our guys and those Thai nationals who didn't rest until they were found. However, now what? How on earth are they going to get these lads out of the submerged caves? They are deep below a hill/mountain, so drilling down appears not to be an option. Many cannot swim and some of the areas through which they have to pass to exit the caves are so narrow that their aqualungs and breathing apparatus may not be able to get through. In any event, if each boy is escorted out with a diver chaperone it's a three-hour ordeal to get out.

Our principal thoughts are, of course, with the safety of the boys but I cannot help feeling that the coach is going to be faced with some very tough questions.

What are the views of other members? How do you think this will end? What on earth enticed the group into the caves in the first place when the rainy season had already arrived?

In view of the subject matter it would be entirely appropriate for us to avoid any in-fighting, bitching, jokes or risque comments. Let's keep it a serious discussion out of respect to the boys and their families.

[Josan]

Great news about the boy football players

[Nirish guy]

I fear it's not over yet and it seems they've still some quite serious hurdles yet to over come yet before everyone's safe return and then it will be time to celebrate.

Lets hope that all goes to plans for all the boys very soon.

The poor teacher will I'm sure be hung out to dry but I'm guessing that he'd no worries about bringing the boys up there in the first place and it was something quite normal to them and that things just got (too) quickly out of hand for him to cope - I'm sure the West won't see it that way and all will be screaming about a terrible health and safety failure ( which of course it is) but it will be interesting if the Thai's see that in the same light and aren't perhaps a bit Mai pen rai about it - but perhaps when childrens lives are at stake maybe not in this case.

[a447]

I read in the paper that there is a sign outside the cave warning people not to enter.

If that is true, the coach is in deep shit, as well he should be.

[dab69]

https://gizmodo.com/a-daring-plan-to-rescue-boys-trapped-in-thai-cave-is-st-1827345522

[Blueskytoday]

I read the boys went out alone,,without the coach?? They went into the cave themselves,,he went looking for them and found their back packs and bikes...anyone else see this...?

[arsenal]

Let's all hope for the best.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jul/04/thai-cave-rescuers-race-time-trapped-boys-monsoon-storms

[frequent]

I read the boys went out alone,,without the coach?? They went into the cave themselves,,he went looking for them and found their back packs and bikes...anyone else see this...?So far the assumption is the coach went into the cave with them. Until the coach is interviewed everything else is speculation

[Smiles]

I read the boys went out alone,,without the coach?? They went into the cave themselves,,he went looking for them and found their back packs and bikes...anyone else see this...?The coach was one of the 13, so he was probably leading them, and got stuck with them.

[maump]

I have been watching this story and praying for the kids. I am very happy. Regarding getting them out, these are tough Thai kids, they will view being drug thru the dark mud water with a harness and rope to follow to the surface in diving gear as a great rush. They will love it.

[frequent]

I have been watching this story and praying for the kids.I'm sure you're not alone in that

[Oliver2]

Euphoria quickly gave way to concern when the difficulties of extracting these children from the cave became apparent. The best news I've seen today is that there is now hope that they can be freed by pumping out a lot of the water, allowing them to walk. Previously this was deemed implausible. The alternatives- learning to dive and waiting for months for the waters to recede- seem unpalatable.

[bkkguy]

In view of the subject matter it would be entirely appropriate for us to avoid any in-fighting, bitching, jokes or risque comments. Let's keep it a serious discussion out of respect to the boys and their families.

maybe we should just follow the Thai way of showing "respect to the boys and their families" - the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have already announced plans to turn the place into a major tourist attraction:

Disaster cave to be next tourist attraction - Bangkok Post 4 July (https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1496950/disaster-cave-to-be-next-tourist-attraction)

bkkguy

[snotface]

Regarding getting them out, these are tough Thai kids, they will view being drug thru the dark mud water with a harness and rope to follow to the surface in diving gear as a great rush. They will love it.

That sounds like wishful thinking to me. As I understand it, if parts of the tunnel are still flooded when a rescue is attempted, it will be a very dangerous operation - tricky enough for skilled, experienced divers let alone teenage boys, one only 11, who cannot swim and are probably in poor physical and mental shape. The best hope, as Oliver says, is if they have time to lower the water level to a point where diving is not required. Who knows if that will be possible.

[a447]

A report on CNN tonight said it takes the experienced cave divers 11 hours (!) to mske a return trip into the cave.

Having them scuba dive to safety hardly seems to be an option.

With so many experts on the ground they'll surely find a more realistic solution.

One can only hope so.

[poshglasgow]

I have been watching this story and praying for the kids. I am very happy. Regarding getting them out, these are tough Thai kids, they will view being drug thru the dark mud water with a harness and rope to follow to the surface in diving gear as a great rush. They will love it.

I really do hope that they gain something positive from this. To be dragged through the water in the dark would terrify me but I am sure that the boys will realise that the professionals, in whose safe hands they depend, will offer them the best possible chance of being reunited with their families.

As one newspaper highlighted yesterday, when it comes to an emergency the British are in the front line of international aid and rescue. Make you proud, at these moments, to be British - because we do care!

[poshglasgow]

https://gizmodo.com/a-daring-plan-to-rescue-boys-trapped-in-thai-cave-is-st-1827345522

This is an excellent report, dab69, with some very clear photos. The standard of journalism is the best I've seen anywhere on this story. It sums up the situation brilliantly. Thank you for sharing.

[arsenal]

.Poshglasgow wrote.
"As one newspaper highlighted yesterday, when it comes to an emergency the British are in the front line of international aid and rescue. Make you proud, at these moments, to be British - because we do care!"

Here here. Well said that man.

[frequent]

I really do hope that they gain something positive from this. To be dragged through the water in the dark would terrify me but I am sure that the boys will realise that the professionals, in whose safe hands they depend, will offer them the best possible chance of being reunited with their families.Realising something intellectually and experiencing it is two different things. Prisoners being waterboarded probably realise they are being tortured not killed, but it doesn't stop the terror. None of them can swim. I have a morbid fear of drowning so I'm less optimistic about the success of getting every single one of them out alive if they're going to be "swum" out. At least one section of the cave through which they must pass is wholly flooded. As well, think of the impact on those who remain as their friends depart, one by one. Apparently there are two boys and the coach who are weaker than the rest because of the days with little or no food, whose chances of surviving a diving experience is much lower

[frequent]

Here's an assessment of the difficulties involved in getting the boys out safely via scuba diving equipment - https://www.newscientist.com/article/2173560-can-trapped-thai-boys-be-rescued-by-learning-to-scuba-dive/

[kittyboy]

Here's an assessment of the difficulties involved in getting the boys out safely via scuba diving equipment - https://www.newscientist.com/article/2173560-can-trapped-thai-boys-be-rescued-by-learning-to-scuba-dive/

I suspect they will be in there for at least a few weeks. I was reading Thai visa and I laughed when a poster suggested putting the boys into capsules and pulling them out one by one. Apparently that individual had not read the description of the narrow windy path.

Young boys and young men sometimes do (in hindsight) foolish things. I would rather see young people out doing adventures and taking risks than sitting home playing video games.

I am lucky to be alive..all the stupid things I did when younger.

[arsenal]

One of the rescue divers has died so this is clearly a crisis situation.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/06/thailand-cave-rescue-looming-rain-clouds-could-force-quick-rescue-decision-live

[kittyboy]

One of the rescue divers has died so this is clearly a crisis situation.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/06/thailand-cave-rescue-looming-rain-clouds-could-force-quick-rescue-decision-live
A sad occurrence but not a crisis.

[Smiles]

The trouble when rogue volunteers take matters into their own hands:


Rescue workers suffered a setback in their race to drain water from the flooded cave and extract the team when volunteers inadvertently pumped water back into the cave.

Operation commander Narongsak Osatanakorn said overzealous volunteers working on their own arrived on site and began pumping water into the ground, forcing it back into the partially flooded Tham Luang Nang Non cave in northern Thailand.

"They may have some belief that their techniques are effective for groundwater drainage, but anything that is not in the plan must be discussed with us first," Narongsak told Thai media. "We are racing against water (that is) flowing into the cave although we have plugged its channels."

The volunteers were corrected, and Poonsak Woongsatngiem, an official from Thailand’s interior ministry, told the Guardian that the water had been reduced by 40 percent in the past few days, clearing a 1-mile stretch of cave the boys would need to cross. The boys are about 2.5 miles from the cave entrance.

Communications are also a concern as rescue workers consider extrication options in advance of monsoon rains forecast for Saturday. Authorities have not yet been able to connect a phone line, and a round trip through the winding, waterlogged tunnels between the boys and a rudimentary cave command post that now has a phone takes more than six hours.

[arsenal]

He was a former Thai Navy Seal so hardly a rogue volunteer.

[Smiles]

He was a former Thai Navy Seal so hardly a rogue volunteer.
I know that. You are mixing up two totally different events. The death of the Navy Seal was related to some kind of oxygen problem.
The event regarding the water being pumped into the cave rather than out was the fault of "over zealous" volunteers.

I do have a gut feeling that this is not going to end well. Hope I'm 100% wrong.
.

[kittyboy]

I know that. You are mixing up two totally different events. The death of the Navy Seal was related to some kind of oxygen problem.
The event regarding the water being pumped into the cave rather than out was the fault of "over zealous" volunteers.

I do have a gut feeling that this is not going to end well. Hope I'm 100% wrong.
.

Sounds like willful ignorance by arsenal.

My opinion and mine probably srinks.. but they can not swim and or dive these kids out. Too risky and too many.
It will be an engineering solution. Freeze the groundwater, and or dam the water inflow and pump the cave dry...or drill a tunnel from the top.

It will take weeks 4-8 weeks to extract those boys.

[Smiles]

It will take weeks 4-8 weeks to extract those boys.
Yes, and that's one of my fears. Those kids all look terribly emaciated already after the long spell of time they spent in the dark before being found. Can they stand the journey -- and find the immense energy needed?

[poshglasgow]

One of the rescue divers has died so this is clearly a crisis situation.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/06/thailand-cave-rescue-looming-rain-clouds-could-force-quick-rescue-decision-live

Interesting reading, Arsenal: dreadful news about the death of one of the divers. Thanks for sharing.

[arsenal]

Kittyboy and Smiles are clearly very knowledgeable on deep cave rescues during monsoon season.

[Smiles]

Kittyboy and Smiles are clearly very knowledgeable on deep cave rescues during monsoon season.. . . and you are fast becoming an A-1 dickhead.
In the post above I simply made it clear that you had gotten your avents crossed. Happens all the time.

[cdnmatt]

Hate to say it, but this isn't looking good...

I have no clue what I'm talking about when it comes to a rescue operation like this, so am not going to pretned I do.

Hope they all somehow manage to get out alive though, although having a former Thai Navy Seal die today wasn't exactly uplifting.

Not sure if this is right, but was told when the first photos / videros of them emerged they were looking qite happy, smiles all around, thumbs up, etc. Then just recently after / before now, new photos emerged and not a smile in sight. Think the kids are beginning to understand the seriousness of the situation.

I guess one of those hope for the best, plan for the worst scenarios?

[arsenal]

I read your post about jokes Smiles and knew exactly what mood you were in today and what sort of posts we could expect.

[dinagam]

What they need now is the British secret agent, the one and only James Bond.
Congratulations to the two British divers who were the first to land on Pattaya beach.

[dab69]

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/elon-musk-offers-help-thailand-121311521.html

[dab69]

http://www.thisisinsider.com/thailand-cave-internet-cables-being-wired-to-stranded-soccer-team-2018-7*****

well. hell the boys have to have their internet.

[lonelywombat]

Thai cave rescue: Governor says boys can’t be rescued today

Detailed Newspaper report just released with recent photos. First 2 paras only, more detailed reporting ,videos and photos

July 7, 2018 9:01am
THE 12 Thai boys trapped inside a flooded cave with their soccer coach for two weeks are not yet ready to attempt a dangerous dive to freedom, after the death of a military diver underscored the huge risks they face.

Addressing journalists near the Tham Luang cave complex, the governor of the Chiang Rai province, Narongsak Osottanakorn, was not confident that an extraction attempt would be safe at the moment.

[frequent]

A very extensive story here - http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-07-07/thai-cave-rescue-expert-divers-to-guide-trapped-soccer-team-out/9952924

[paborn]

http://www.thisisinsider.com/thailand-cave-internet-cables-being-wired-to-stranded-soccer-team-2018-7*****

well. hell the boys have to have their internet.

Possibly the most callus comment I've yet seen on this forum. These are children you know and gthe internet provides audio and video communications, God help us!

[lonelywombat]

Two of the boys are out and have been transferred to Chiang Mai hospital

Another four posssibly are in the tunnels

Just announced
Sources are telling the Guardian’s Michael Safi that the third and fourth boys to have been rescued are receiving medical examinations outside the cave, while the fifth and sixth boys are about to emerge.Officials have announced that diving operations have finished for the day.
The Thai news site Khaosod English is reporting that one of the four boys rescued from the cave is being “closely monitored”

live coverage on
https://www.theguardian.com/world/li...pped-boys-live (https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/08/thailand-cave-rescue-operation-divers-trapped-boys-live)7

background https://sawatdeenetwork.com/v4/showthread.php?20027-Thai-boy-Soccer-rescue-cannot-be-rescued-today-HUGE-RISKS-Live-video-now-available/page2

President trump has just found out about this and has sent his usual twitter

Donald J. Trump
✔
@realDonaldTrump
The U.S. is working very closely with the Government of Thailand to help get all of the children out of the cave and to safety. Very brave and talented people!

11:14 PM - Jul 8, 2018

[lonelywombat]

The official debriefing mentions only 4 boys have emerged and one has been flown by helicopter to hospital.
All in the diiving rescue team are safe
Diving operations has ceased for today
The boys travelled 1km underwater
Rescue operators have announced a 10 hour break before resuming.

live coverage on
https://www.theguardian.com/world/li...pped-boys-live (https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/08/thailand-cave-rescue-operation-divers-trapped-boys-live)
The rescue has been concluded for the night and will resume in 10-20 hours because “we’ve used all the oxygen,” according to the operation chief.

“Its actually just falling quiet here,” says Dan Johnston on the BBC News Channel. “There’s been a lot of activity in the past few minutes. It looks like people are leaving this site for the night.

“One thing to bear in mind is the tiredness levels of the cave diving exerts who are leading this operation. They have been working busily all day and it looks like some of them are actually leaving the dive site now.

“It looks like they’ve taken the decision that they have done as much as they can for today.”

The operation is set to resume at 8am local time with officials and volunteers buoyed by the fact that their method of rescuing the boys by diving has been successful insofar.

[poshglasgow]

I was sitting by the lake in the gardens of Herstmonceux Castle, Sussex, this afternoon, enjoying the sun and the solitude, thinking of events in Northern Thailand and praying for the safe rescue of the boys when I heard the news that the first group of them had been saved and taken to hospital. Isn't it great when the world's experts pull together to restore our faith in human nature at a time when the the world's politicians seem determined to undermine it?

I won't relax until all of the boys and their coach are out.

Two things will happen I think. The profile of the British, because of the prompt involvement of our experts, will be raised in the minds of the Thais. Second, I suspect that Hollywood moguls are already working on a future film - and what a film it will make! Mister Spielberg where are you?

Great too that the members of SGT pulled together in this thread to share heartfelt sentiments, opinions, links and ideas in a spirit of collective humanity and respect for young lives.

[gerefan2]

Indeed, and I hope, but doubt, the Thai obsession with losing face will be permanently put aside after this episode.
Had they not invited (or been given/offered) outside help the outcome would probably be very different.
Fingers crossed the rest of the boys get out soon.

[cdnmatt]

Great to hear, and fingers crossed for the rest of them.

Was talking about this last night, and here's a prime example of why I enjoyed living in Thailand so much. When they were passing letters, the coach apologized profusely, and felt horrible about what happened. In response, the parents wrote back saying don't worry about, you have nothing to be sorry for, we know you're a great guy and will take care of our kids. That's it, full stop.

Just imagine if this would have happened in North America. Loads of people would be outraged, there would be calls for the coach to be criminally charged and imprisoned, accusations and lawsuits abound, legislature being introduced at local, provincial and federal levels, etc.

In Thailand though, it's simply sometimes bad shit happens, so let's work together to fix it.

[frequent]

Just imagine if this would have happened in North America. Loads of people would be outraged, there would be calls for the coach to be criminally charged and imprisoned, accusations and lawsuits abound, legislature being introduced at local, provincial and federal levels, etc.Absolutely Matt, couldn't agree more that there's absolutely no sense of personal responsibility for anything in Thailand. As for legislation, the rule of law is so weak in Thailand it would be pointless. Unless of course it's an immigration matter where, as we all know, your sense of responsibility couldn't find its own way home, and the law did prevail

[cdnmatt]

Absolutely Matt, couldn't agree more that there's absolutely no sense of personal responsibility for anything in Thailand. As for legislation, the rule of law is so weak in Thailand it would be pointless. Unless of course it's an immigration matter where, as we all know, your sense of responsibility couldn't find its own way home, and the law did prevail


Yes, we need good laws. Otherwise, how else is the US government supposed to kidnap thousands of kids while assuming virtually no responsibility for them? They don't even know how many kids they kidnapped, let alone where they are or where their parents are. They believe it's under 3000 kids, but aren't quite sure. You even have the DOJ asking the courts, "well, what happens to the kids whose parents we already deported? do we have to give them back too? that seems like a lot of work.".

Yes, strong laws are obviously essential and help oh so much.

[frequent]

Yes, strong laws are obviously essential and help oh so much.When do you expect to see such a situation in Thailand?

[poshglasgow]

Great to hear, and fingers crossed for the rest of them.

Was talking about this last night, and here's a prime example of why I enjoyed living in Thailand so much. When they were passing letters, the coach apologized profusely, and felt horrible about what happened. In response, the parents wrote back saying don't worry about, you have nothing to be sorry for, we know you're a great guy and will take care of our kids. That's it, full stop.

Just imagine if this would have happened in North America. Loads of people would be outraged, there would be calls for the coach to be criminally charged and imprisoned, accusations and lawsuits abound, legislature being introduced at local, provincial and federal levels, etc.

In Thailand though, it's simply sometimes bad shit happens, so let's work together to fix it.

I couldn't agree more!

[frequent]

I couldn't agree more!Much as I hate to be the dissenting voice, I've just had a conversation with a Thai where the expressions used were "They should stay there for the four months to teach them a lesson"; "how much money is this costing"; "they're local, they should have known there were warning signs everywhere". I don't buy the argument that no-one in Thailand is outraged - all we're seeing is the feel-good stories entirely focused on the kids and their families. I won't dwell on the comments about the grandstanding by politicians and others

[arsenal]

Following Frequent's argument means no one would be rescued from anywhere. Several years ago a British round-the-world yachtsman had his boat capsized and Australia spent loads rescuing him knowing that when it was the other way round the UK would do the same for one of theirs. It's what civilised countries do.

[lonelywombat]

in the longest article I have seen published , this was published just a few moments ago.
It includes many photos, descriptions on the trip , who was selected and why'
For those searching for good new news it is satisfying.
reports of the baby size submarine built bt Eton Tusk are included

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/world/thai-cave-rescue-perfect-conditions-to-save-cavetrapped-soccer-team-might-not-last/news-story/e98f360f471f437d91375d8351060fa8

[lonelywombat]

just 2 minutes ago on Guardian the following summary.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news
[There appears confusion about whether the weakest boys were the first out or not. The Governor has stated in a press release the strongest boys came out first.]

Four of the boys have were rescued from the Tham Luang caves in Chiang Rai province on Sunday night
All four boys safely reached a hospital in Chiang Rai, the nearest major city
The operation was scheduled to resume between 7am and 5pm local time today, the coordinator of the rescue efforts said divers needed between 10 and 20 hours to rest and set up for another day’s work
Divers have not yet gone into the cave to resume rescue operations but would go in “soon”, sources told the Guardian
The remaining eight boys and their coach remain underground at the original location near to Pattaya beach
When they reached the surface, the divers turned and hugged the boys, who wore full-face scuba masks, after completing the 3.2km journey through the muddy, jagged cave
The operation proceeded much faster than expected due to the walkable water level in the cave after it was launched at 10am local time on Sunday
13 foreign divers and five Thai navy Seals made up the rescue team and were among a team of 90 divers involved in the rescue effort overall
Facebook Twitter Google plus
20m ago
12:35
Divers will begin rescue operation "soon"
Our reporters have had confirmation that divers have not gone into the cave for the rescue mission to bring out the remaining boys today, but are planning on doing so soon.

We don’t have a timeframe yet for when they will enter the cave, our reporters have just been told “soon”.

[cdnmatt]

This is the only place I've heard that the weakest got taken out first.

I'm sure the strongest got taken out first, because that only makes sense. They were worried if any of them could make the journey, so naturally would have went with the strongest first to see if it worked, and to pinpoint any problems that may occur with the weaker ones. Now they know, that amount of oxygen was just enough for 4, as more was used than they expected. And I'm sure there's lots of other things they learned during that first trip to help out during future trips.

Not to mention, I'm sure it was a huge morale boost when the others found out their friends made it out, which obviously helps in a situation like this.

No real news yet... hopefully they begin the operation again later today.

[Smiles]

"This is the only place I've heard that the weakest got taken out first. I'm sure the strongest got taken out first ... "I understand you cannot believe you could possibly be wrong on any things (kind of like Trump), but try and cool your ego down for a few nano-seconds ... and read this.
Read? Yes? No?

http://www.businessinsider.com/thai-cave-rescue-weakest-boys-rescue-underway-2018-7

[lonelywombat]

Here's an interesting story of some politics playing out in Thailand - the man managing the cave crisis with overwhelming international attention has been demoted, as Michael Ruffles reports:

Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osotanakorn has fought and lost another battle – to keep his job.

From the Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news

It is now noon with no word from Narongsak.
from news corp
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news
We are still waiting for the daily press briefing from Narongsak Osatanakorn, the head of the joint command centre coordinating the operation. These have customarily occurred about 10am local time each day to let the hundreds of gathered reporters know what the plans are for the day.
It is now noon with no word from Narongsak

[frequent]

Here's an interesting story of some politics playing out in ThailandIt's a military dictatorship in a society where the patronage system is paramount, let's never forget

[latintopxxx]

frequent...unless one lives in little rocket man land...we all have access to the news...so dont know u r so eagerly posting old news

[scottish-guy]

frequent... dont know u r so eagerly posting old news

Here's some new News - it's not Frequent who is glued to his computer screen and relaying it all back to us, it's LW.

You've fingered the wrong person

[lonelywombat]

Here's an interesting story of some politics playing out in Thailand - the man managing the cave crisis with overwhelming international attention has been demoted, as Michael Ruffles reports:

Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osotanakorn has fought and lost another battle – to keep his job.

From the Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news
We are still waiting for the daily press briefing from Narongsak Osatanakorn, the head of the joint command centre coordinating the operation. These have customarily occurred about 10am local time each day to let the hundreds of gathered reporters know what the plans are for the day.

It is now noon with no word from Narongsak.

[lonelywombat]

Discussions in Bangkok have indicated that the interior minister is to take charge .Rumours that he is allegedly open to tea money and that he is also a candidate for Premier next year.
The delay to an announcement could well be to have him TAKE OVER .That to me seems like a disaster in the making

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/world/thai-cave-rescue-perfect-conditions-to-save-cavetrapped-soccer-team-might-not-last/news-story/e98f360f471f437d91375d8351060fa8
In comments released by the government, Interior Minister Anupong Paojinda said officials were meeting today about the next stage of the operation and how to extract the remaining nine people from the cave in the country’s north.

Anupong said divers need to place more air canisters along the underwater route to where the boys and their coach have been trapped since June 23. He said that process can take several hours.

Narongsak Osotthanakorn, the former governor of Chiang Rai province who has stayed on to oversee the rescue mission, is expected to update media shortly on what is planned for today.

Maybe some commonsense
Narongsak Osotthanakorn, the former governor of Chiang Rai province who has stayed on to oversee the rescue mission, is expected to update media shortly on what is planned for today.
[THIS IS HOURS AFTER HIS ORIGINAL PLAN TO BRIEF JOURNALISTS]

The rescue operation to extract the boys from the cave is underway, official reports have confirmed.

Thailand’s interior ministry has said the same divers who went in on Sunday had gone in on Monday. There has been no reports as of yet on the divers progress. A MEETING PLANNED WILL BE CONDUCTED SHORTLY

[frequent]

Rumours that he is allegedly open to tea money ...Pass the smelling salts

[Oliver2]

The Junta will take the credit if the operation is successful but if there's a tragedy, God forbid, I suspect they'll need a fall-guy.

[a447]

Members, I have merged the two good news topics- First of the Thai soccer boys have arrived and Great news about the Thai soccer players into this one thread.

A447
Moderator

[frequent]

The Junta will take the credit if the operation is successful but if there's a tragedy, God forbid, I suspect they'll need a fall-guy.Ready-made fall guys in the farang divers

[lonelywombat]

Ready-made fall guys in the farang divers
With the lives of 8 children and their coach, and the lives of all the people who put their lives at risk to save them, you make these petulant remarks as you have nothng better to do.
What a useless human being you are and for the moderators to let you continue.
Please do not post replies here. Send your messages to this "person' by private mail

[lonelywombat]

A fifth boy has emerged and is raced to an ambulance to take him
to an ambulance and hospital.
The sight of the ambulance reaching the helipad was greeted by cheers, according to AP.

An ambulance with flashing lights left the site of a flooded cave in northern Thailand where a youth soccer team has been trapped for two weeks, just hours after the second phase of a rescue operation was launched.

The ambulance drove toward a helipad, where a helicopter was seen taking off shortly after to the cheers of the crowd below. The same process was used Sunday for at least one of the four boys rescued in the first attempt at getting the 12 boys and their coach out of the underground complex.
Reporting from a press briefing, he says that authorities claim someone flew a drone above the operation.

There are also reports that some media have been listening to police radio reports. “This is really wrong,” said Narongsak Osatanakorn, the head of the joint command centre coordinating the operation.

Pad Krapow, Thai basil leaves with meat and rice, was the meal the boys rescued on Sunday, according to Narongsak Osottanakorn, the head of the joint command centre coordinating the mission.

“They made a special request that they wished to have Pad Krapow,” Narongsak told a press briefing.

[lonelywombat]

reports of a sixth boy now coming out. now confirmed
The Thai PM is waiting in Chiang Mai and waiting to visit so as to not interfere.

confirmed to Guardian Live
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news

[lonelywombat]

Reuter and CNN report that a fifth and sixth boy are now out
A seventh boy is on the way out and has arrived at the hospital
possibility an eighth boy to be confirmed as well.
The time difference to yesterday must be due to the water level dropping and the ability to walk out

live news https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news

[lonelywombat]

A seventh boy has arrived and on way to the hospital

Local Thai news website Khaosod English is now reporting an eighth boy has been rescued from the cave, more than half the total of 13 people trapped in that cave.

The site says: "the eighth boy was brought out at 6:59pm, following the previous three brought out between 4:45pm and 6:30pm". Guardian live site has confirmed the eighth boy is out.

The time difference to yesterday must be due to the water level dropping and the ability to walk out

live news https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2018/jul/09/thai-cave-rescue-resumes-to-free-eight-boys-and-coach-still-trapped-latest-news

[cdnmatt]

Not to be a downer here, but does anyone know if they're being brought out dead or alive?

[francois]

You are being a downer, matt.

[scottish-guy]

I hope it ends happily for all - 8 out and 4 (plus coach) to go.

I just tittered to myself, speculating that in 5 years or so and there will be dozens of Thai bar boys in whatever's left of BT and Jomtien regaling inebriated and gullible gay farangs with tales of how they escaped certain death in the caves of Chiang Mai:

"Yes, sexy man, it was very bad, I think I die - can you give me tip now"

:D

[a447]

If Japan is anything to go by, they'll become TV. and internet superstars for a few weeks and then will be forgotten as everyone moves on to the next big story.

They have enough on their plate psychologically as it is. I hope they are not further harmed by all the media attention that will surely come their way.

[Manforallseasons]

They have enough on their plate psychologically as it is. I hope they are not further harmed by all the media attention that will surely come their way.

Providing they all get out in good shape I think as they are kids they are likely to look back on the whole thing as an adventure, something to tell their grand children about.

[cdnmatt]

At the very least, for the next good while they'll have no problem finding girlfriends and getting laid. :)

[Nirish guy]

At the very least, for the next good while they'll have no problem finding girlfriends and getting laid. :)

Or boyfriends...... one should never "presume" and all that....

[frequent]

I hope it ends happily for all - 8 out and 4 (plus coach) to go.

I just tittered to myself, speculating that in 5 years or so and there will be dozens of Thai bar boys in whatever's left of BT and Jomtien regaling inebriated and gullible gay farangs with tales of how they escaped certain death in the caves of Chiang Mai:

"Yes, sexy man, it was very bad, I think I die - can you give me tip now"

:D

They’d have to be really gullible since the caves are closer to Chiang Rai

[scottish-guy]

Artistic licence

:p

[frequent]

Artistic licenceYou should pay more attention to lonelywombat’s breathless posts - except there were a couple that were almost incomprehensible yesterday. Even his usual cut’n’paste skills seem to be deserting him in his old age. Perhaps his medication needs updating

[lonelywombat]

You should pay more attention to lonelywombat’s breathless posts - except there were a couple that were almost incomprehensible yesterday. Even his usual cut’n’paste skills seem to be deserting him in his old age. Perhaps his medication needs updating

In the last few days whilst searching several tv live networks and the various print outlets, there was confusion as to what was going on. Even today Tuesday morning, clashing reports as to whether the weakest boys or strongest were bought out first.
Next some papers say nobody is allowed to know boy's names ,but other papers have the names, photos and details of their first meals.
CNN newscast stated no ambulances had arrived at the hospital ,yet another station showed the choppers arriving with a boy being transported. Obviously the distance between the landing zone caused the complications.

So why does frequent read my posts if he is not interested, or does he do so to make another insane comment about a poster
It is impossible to be accurate if the news outlets do not agree. Frequent is expecting professional reporting that matches his incredible sense of his own importance to this board. He is the only person that believes that.

Yes, I guess it was a question of the weakest first to get them to hospital, or the strongest to prove the concept
Guess we now know more of frequents accurate reporting.

[frequent]

So why does frequent read my posts if he is not interested, or does he do so to make another insane comment about a poster
It is impossible to be accurate if the news outlets do not agree. Frequent is expecting professional reporting that matches his incredible sense of his own importance to this board. He is the only person that believes that.I don't expect accurate reporting from news agencies, all of whom are vying for their own angle using what they hope are their own exclusive sources. "Professional" is a vastly over-rated word. As for my sense of importance, I suggest you take this up with the Moderators

[lonelywombat]

A ful report of the Doctor who was asked by London to join the rescue team

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-07-09/thai-cave-rescue-adelaide-doctor-highly-skilled-colleague-says/9957074?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium

[frequent]

In the last few days whilst searching several tv live networks and the various print outlets, there was confusion as to what was going on. Even today Tuesday morning, clashing reports as to whether the weakest boys or strongest were bought out first.
Next some papers say nobody is allowed to know boy's names ,but other papers have the names, photos and details of their first meals.
CNN newscast stated no ambulances had arrived at the hospital ,yet another station showed the choppers arriving with a boy being transported. Obviously the distance between the landing zone caused the complications.

So why does frequent read my posts if he is not interested, or does he do so to make another insane comment about a poster
It is impossible to be accurate if the news outlets do not agree. Frequent is expecting professional reporting that matches his incredible sense of his own importance to this board. He is the only person that believes that.

Guess we now know more of frequents accurate reporting.

As I say, lonely, take it up with the Mods. I've already taken one of my own posts up with them, based on your reaction, so I expect you to pull your weight here

[lonelywombat]

just arrived from Guardian live.1330 AEST They seem more accurate than other news outlets
The first four boys to be rescued have now seen their parents, and the other four will likely see their parents today, Michael Safi is reporting from the scene.

The reunification was from a distance however - the boys are in hospital and only saw their parents through glass.

Health officials have in the last few minutes provided an update on the state of the boys. The boys are generally health and safe, doctors said, but two are receiving treatment for “minor” lung infections.

It will be at least seven days before they are discharged from hospital

We’ll have further details about the boys’ medical conditions shortly, from our reporters in Thailand. doctors are setting up a phone line so the boys in hospital can speak with their parents.

From the information given by health officials, we are getting a clearer idea of who is out of the cave.

It would appear the youngest child, Chanin Wiboonrunreung, and the coach, Ekaphol Chantawong, are still inside.

[Smiles]

Why don't you just put this post (and all others) into your main topic. Why flood the board with your beloved copy&pastes with never ending 'stuff' which in essence is the same on-going story?

[lonelywombat]

Two of the rescued have suspected lung infections, Thai officials say. The boys have been quarantined while they’ve been tested for the lung infection histoplasmosis - also known as cave disease - which can be fatal if left untreated. All eight of the rescued boys are on IV drips and are being treated with anti-biotics.
The Wild Boars coach is still in the cave, health officials have confirmed, saying the boys who have been taken out are aged 12 to 16. Coach Ekkapol Chantawong was reported to be in weak health after giving his share of the team’s meagre food supplies to the boys.
AFP is reporting that rescuers are confident they can bring out all five of the remaining young Thai footballers trapped inside the flooded Tham Luang cave complex today.

van Karadzic, a Danish diver who is part of the rescue team, has described the feat of the “incredibly strong” young boys in diving out of the cave.
“No kid has cave dived like this before,” he told the BBC, and told NBC that anyone who had not cave dived before would find the experience “extremely fearful.”
Asked how he felt when he saw the first boy being bought toward him, he said: “I was very scared. I didn’t know if it was a casualty or a kid. It didn’t feel good.”

Mr Karadzic said that, thanks to water pumps, it was easier by the hour to get in and out of the cave.
However, he said: “They’re diving in something considered an extremely hazardous environment with no training in zero visibility, the only light that is in there is the torch light we bring ourselves. We were obviously very afraid of any kind of panic from the divers. Then there is multiple equipment malfunction as you can imagine.

“I can’t understand how cool these small kids are, you know?
“Thinking about how they’ve been kept in a small cave for two weeks, they haven’t seen their Mums. Incredibly strong kids. Unbelievable almost.

[lonelywombat]

I put in as a stand alone topic for those who wanted to read. I had requests so did so.
I can understand your impatience not seeing your posts on the forum
But you do not have to open my posts just so you can complain again and again
put me on ignore so you have one less to complain about
Find another subject like dumbest photoes of you and your old man to keep us agog.

[lonelywombat]

Final mission underway
Thai authorities have confirmed today’s rescue mission began at 10.08 this morning (local time)[3 hours ago] with 19 divers going in.

Despite the heavy rain overnight, conditions in the cave haven’t changed much.

Michael Safi reports there was applause in the room as the rescue chief announced the four boys and their coach will be brought out in the one mission

[cdnmatt]

I put in as a stand alone topic for those who wanted to read. I had requests so did so

Wait, you had people send you PMs / e-mails asking you to continue making new threads every time there was a new twist in this ongoing story, because they are apparently incapable of using Google, or?

[frequent]

If people want to know what's going they can do what I do - have the following links at my fingertips -
http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/
http://www.khaosodenglish.com/

[frequent]

Jealousy is a curse. I am posting on one subject that you feel left out on.Once they are all out that is finished.I prefer not to waste Forum space on a topic that is widely reported in the world's media - see the links provided in my previous post

[lonelywombat]

I had not given thought to others than the 4 boys and coach, But there are others to come out including the doctor and the Seals who have been keeping the boys company. Then and only then will the operation be complete

[cdnmatt]

Great to hear. If all goes well, everyone should be safe in about 4 hours.

BTW... does anyone know, where did the UK divers who founds them come from? Do they live in Thailand? Or were they just monitoring the news, and upon finding out they were lost in a cave, while in some other part of the world decided, "we have to go, and try to help"?

[lonelywombat]

Great to hear. If all goes well, everyone should be safe in about 4 hours.

BTW... does anyone know, where did the UK divers who founds them come from? Do they live in Thailand? Or were they just monitoring the news, and upon finding out they were lost in a cave, while in some other part of the world decided, "we have to go, and try to help"?

In my post on his background, he was requested by name by UK divers

[a447]

Members

Some posts in this thread have been moved to the Holding Room.

Link: https://sawatdeenetwork.com/v4/showthread.php?20053-Adelaide-cave-diving-doctor

[lonelywombat]

All CNN,Reuters and Guardian are reporting a ninth boy has been rescued and is being treated in onsite medical
Just now a tenth boy is reported confirmed

[Blueskytoday]

I heard the gov't wants to turn the cave into a tourist attraction..really?? If I were PM...I would seal the cave up...no need to have locals and tourists going deep in the cave as this type event will happen again..just close it to everyone...

[frequent]

I heard the gov't wants to turn the cave into a tourist attraction..really?? Any online source for this rumour?

[Nirish guy]

Great to hear. If all goes well, everyone should be safe in about 4 hours.

Alas not everyone unfortunately as we shouldn't forget the Thai diver who lost his life in the rescue attempt of course.

[lonelywombat]

It has just been reported that an eleventh boy has been carried out,
Thai TV said the eleventh to be rescued is assumed to be 11-year-old Chanin Wiboonrungrueng. His identity has not been confirmed. It is reported he is the smallest and is in good health.



There has been little said as to the conditions of the last three so far.
The last few boys are the weakest and the coach has beem giving all his food to the boys.

[lonelywombat]

Thai PM says the boys have been given anti-anxiety medication for the journey out the cave - the same medication he takes to help him relax when he shoots guns. This confirms that the eleventh boy seems fit and well
9:02pm
Almost all of the "Wild Boars" are now out of the cave
Our reliable source on the ground tells us the eleventh boy is now out of the cave and in an ambulance, and the twelfth and final boy to be rescued is currently in the second chamber – which means he's not out of the cave but he doesn't have to do any more swimming.

[lonelywombat]

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/world/watch-live-thailand-cave-rescue-final-five-boys-and-their-soccer-coach-to-be-freed/news-story/a176bfe7b4ed0a4ed944b986a26f2b3b

Final rescue operation underway to save boys trapped in Thai cave
WORLD
Watch live: Boys and coach More boys freed from Thai cave as rescue continues
Paul Toohey in Chiang Rai, with staff writers, News Corp Australia Network
3 minutes ago
THE Tham Luang cave has delivered its miracle, with all 13 members of the Wild Boar soccer team making it to safety in one of the most inspiring rescue missions the world has witnessed.

According to multiple reports from insiders, all members of the team have successfully swum through flooded passages and are now either out of the cave system or currently making their way.

It is understood the team’s coach is still at the third chamber where rescuers have set up a base camp, but will be coming out soon.

It is understood Australian anaesthetist Richard Harris administered a mild sedative to all of the boys prior to departing the ledge where they have been trapped, in order to eliminate any fear during the swim.

[Nirish guy]

Latest news - all boys and coach now freed and safe !!!

Sorry Lonely I couldn't resist stealing your final thunder ! :-)

[lonelywombat]

What we know so far
All twelve boys and their coach have been rescued, after being trapped in a cave in Thailand for 18 days. The Thai navy Seals, who have been running the operation, confirmed that all 13 members of the Wild Boar football team, have been rescued in an update on its Facebook page.
Three navy seals and a doctor, who have been with the boys, are expected to emerge from the cave soon. The rescued boys are being airlifted to hospital.

nirish looks ready to take over and as it is bedtime here I will leave it to him

[Nirish guy]

......nirish looks ready to take over and as it is bedtime here I will leave it to him

I'll leave it to the news outlets, they'll do a much better job directly than I ever could copying and pasting their news here I'm sure.

[DoubleDutch]

Just to let you all know, the cave drama is over, the team is safely rescued from the cave!!

I realize there seem to be several threads on this topic going on, but I don't wish to confuse all the other threads with my specific cave news, so I feel new thread is needed. You are welcome!

[scottish-guy]

Excellent.

However, I hope you sought permission from Lonelywombat before starting your thread.

Now, if only there was a global media who could report on such matters in real time, instead of us having to rely on SGT for breaking news...

[DoubleDutch]

BREAKING!!!!

The cave rescue is over, everybody is safely out of the cave.

Yay!

Just in case you missed this post, since it's easily buried in this cave mega thread, I opened a new, successful rescue conclusion thread, you're welcome!

(Should the rain fall around Chiang Ray intensify toward the morning, I shall open a new thread, same goes for all wind related news in the area)

[Nirish guy]

BREAKING!!!! The cave rescue is over, everybody is safely out of the cave.


Sorry to disappoint but see post 103 above ! :-p

PS on your update could you also brief us on road conditions in the area and news on possible volcano's. earthquakes or other natural disasters that may be coming please........ many thanks.

[DoubleDutch]

What we know so far
All twelve boys and their coach have been rescued, after being trapped in a cave in Thailand for 18 days. The Thai navy Seals, who have been running the operation, confirmed that all 13 members of the Wild Boar football team, have been rescued in an update on its ...

Is it raining though? You did not mention anything about rain. How are we supposed to rely on SGN for world news unless you post updates in timely manner, preferably every post in its own thread!

SMH

[DoubleDutch]

Sorry to disappoint but see post 103 above ! :-p

I was feeling like ABC World News anchor, you just had to ruin everything!!

[Nirish guy]

I hear that there's news that one of the police posts operating one of the roadblocks at the bottom of the mountain may be running low on sticky rice for their lunch, has anyone any news or an update on this breaking story perhaps ?

[Nirish guy]

I was feeling like ABC World News anchor, you just had to ruin everything!!


Well I'm sorry but if you're going to set yourself up as a 24 hour rolling news service to the gay community you're going to have to get your act together, we cant be doing with any of this shoddy second rate late news, it's cutting edge headlines and facts we need not 2 minute old news ya know ! But you seem like a nice enough chap, if you want to come back next week we can maybe try you out presenting the weather desk or something .....

[Nirish guy]

There is......NIRISHGUY NEWS - first with THE most important final piece of breaking news as it happened (in this case ) he he

[sglad]

I hear that there's news that one of the police posts operating one of the roadblocks at the bottom of the mountain may be running low on sticky rice for their lunch, has anyone any news or an update on this breaking story perhaps ?

Sarcasm and subtlety is wasted on this crowd - everything has to be literal and spelt out. They can't even appreciate regular porn - it has to be geronto porn.

[DoubleDutch]

Lonelywombat has spent literally minutes every day updating the world about what every major news source on Earth has been reporting, and ridicule is all you got? Some people, huh!!

[bkkguy]

I heard the gov't wants to turn the cave into a tourist attraction..really??


Any online source for this rumour?

from the Bangkok Post 4 July:

Karuna Dechatiwong, TAT director at the Chiang Rai office, said TAT will work with local authorities and the private sector to promote the cave and other attractive nearby venues as it anticipates a number of tourists will flock to the area in the near future.

Disaster cave to be next tourist attraction - Bangkok Post (https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1496950/disaster-cave-to-be-next-tourist-attraction)

at last count almost 100 Post readers had joined the online lambasting of TAT for this announcement just after the boys had been located - Amazing Thailand indeed! Though I suppose it says as much about tourists as it does about the TAT!

bkkguy

[DoubleDutch]

Sarcasm and subtlety is wasted on this crowd - everything has to be literal and spelt out..

lol.

What about irony, sglad?

[DoubleDutch]

I broke the news, after seeing it on CNN, ABC, BBC, BBC, CCB, DDC, CCD and others.

Mr Nurisguy, you are simply sour loser.

If Lonelywombat didn't already have a signed exclusive with the football team, I'd nominate myself for Pullizer for this story!!

[arsenal]

Retrospectively we can say there turned out to be more flooding in this board by Ol' Wombles than there was in the cave. However folks of his age like to feel useful so....

[scottish-guy]

I broke the news, after seeing it on CNN, ABC, BBC, BBC, CCB, DDC, CCD and others..

I note you apparently saw it on the BBC twice, so you've been doubly propagandised.

I find Al Jazeera and Russia Today far more impartial

[Nirish guy]

With a headline like "The soccer is safely RECUED" I think my news anchor crown is safe for now......but hey at that standard of news broadcasting I hear that Fox news maybe looking for people if you find yourself out of work for long there DoubleDutch ! :)

[sglad]

With a headline like "The soccer is safely RECUED" I think my news anchor crown is safe for now......but hey at that standard of news broadcasting I hear that Fox news maybe looking for people if you find yourself out of work for long there DoubleDutch ! :)

To qualify for Fox News, he should have written "The soccer team is safely rescued because they found Jesus while in the cave!"

[Nirish guy]

To qualify for Fox News, he should have written "The soccer team is safely rescued because they found Jesus while in the cave!"


And the reason they were all in the cave was of course to see the lord god himself President Trump, who was so busy making his cave great again that he hardly even noticed they were there !

[Jellybean]

The topic created by DoubleDutch entitled, The soccer team is safely recued! [sic] was merged with this topic.

[poshglasgow]

The boys and the coach are safe. Thank God.

In a world awash with torment, it lightens the heart to witness the power - not of man's 'inhumanity' to man (about which we hear so much) - but of the empathetic pulse that beats within us that hears so clearly, and responds so readily, to a call for help from our fellow man, irrespective of race or nationality.

I think that this thread has now run its course: the outcome terrific.

[frequent]

from the Bangkok Post 4 July:


Disaster cave to be next tourist attraction - Bangkok Post (https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1496950/disaster-cave-to-be-next-tourist-attraction)

at last count almost 100 Post readers had joined the online lambasting of TAT for this announcement just after the boys had been located - Amazing Thailand indeed! Though I suppose it says as much about tourists as it does about the TAT!

bkkguyThis being Thailand I guess we’ll have differential pricing for Thais and non-Thais

[frequent]

My favourite non-story about the rescue - Musk’s baby submarine: https://gizmodo.com/is-elon-musk-serious-1827456578

[lonelywombat]

Thai rescue story already being eyed for blockbuster movie treatmentThe nail-biting rescue of a Thai boys soccer team and their coach from a flooded cave complex transfixed news viewers around the world, and the story could be headed for a retelling by Hollywood.

All that needs to be changed is to replace Thai Seals with Us Seals, the Australian Doctor with a US and replace the support staff using aUS hospital to be created.

This is how many stories have been retold in movies past.

[lonelywombat]

Perhaps the most understated person was Australian Doctor Richard Harris
https://www.theage.com.au/world/asia/safe-at-last-extraordinary-mission-to-free-thai-soccer-team-ends-with-all-rescued-20180710-p4zqpg.html

Australian doctor Richard Harris, who is also an expert cave diver and whose presence was requested by British divers participating in the mission, played a critical role in the rescue operation on all three days.

Harris had swum all the way through the cave each day – about 3.2 kilometres – to the trapped Thai soccer players and given a medical sign off for each boy before an evacuation was attempted.

Each day, he would leave the cave only after the last boy had left.He played a pivotal role in the rescue.

Richard Harris you are too modest to accept congratulations, but you are the hero.

Footnote
The father of the heroic Australian doctor Richard Harris passed away just after the mission was successfully completed.

[lonelywombat]

The moment the Thailand cave rescue almost went horribly wrong

This extensive article just published outlined the huge difficulties the rescue teams and the near tradegy that almost overtook them.
Nothing has been said of the rush of water behind them as the last person cleared the tunnel.
It was fascinating to read how bloody difficult for the experts in the tunnel at all stages, and I commend it for all to read
https://www.theage.com.au/world/asia/the-moment-the-thailand-cave-rescue-almost-went-horribly-wrong-20180711-p4zqt5.html

[a447]

Members

Some posts in this thread have been moved to a newly created thread in the Holding Room.

Link: https://sawatdeenetwork.com/v4/showthread.php?20061-Thai-football-soccer-team-thread&p=245411#post245411

From now on, all argumentative posts in this thread will be moved there.

Two similar threads in the Holding Room have been merged with the new one.

A447
Moderator

[dab69]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/boys-rescued-from-thai-cave-wave-from-their-hospital-beds/ar-AAzV5cL

video of the boys at the hospital safe and happy.

Wondering when the first bar will appear in Sunee- "Wild Boars Cave a Go Go".
Listless energy deprived waifs laying about the bar in short loose soccer shorts in the dark
with rock hard seating.

[lonelywombat]

This morning had the inside view of the cage as taken by the Thai Navy Seals.

Impressed as much as I have been. I was stunned to see how many people were involved to bring each boy out. This is the only time I have seen inside the cave, the divers working , the numbers carrying each boy and how they were transported, and the glances of what the strain for divers and boys was like. I wish there was some way to post this video here to wrap this thread. I do not think I can describe it. If it can be done this is from the ThaiNavySeals facebook.
IT IS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE LINK.
https://www.theage.com.au/world/asia/grateful-thai-navy-seals-send-condolences-to-dr-richard-harris-20180712-p4zqyl.html
A MUST SEE FOR THOSE WHO FOLLOWED THIS WHILE IT DEVELOPED, TO THE SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION

[snotface]

I know it was because they were sedated, but the news that some of the boys may have slept through their rescue made me smile, given what we all know about the Thai propensity to nod off at every opportunity.

[Isaanguy]

The first time I brought my other half to the UK for a holiday I couldn't believe that within 10 minutes of us setting off in my car he would be gently snoring

[frequent]

The first time I brought my other half to the UK for a holiday I couldn't believe that within 10 minutes of us setting off in my car he would be gently snoringI remember when I first moved to Thailand a friend remarking that you can keep a Thai boy entertained for hours just by giving him a full-length mirror. That's still true today - forever preening even in lifts with mirrors

[Smiles]

" ... I was stunned ..."
Yes ... well, end of story.

[Manforallseasons]

Yes ... well, end of story.


I wish so but not the case as this has become the never ending story!

[Oliver2]

The international co-operation involved in the rescue was most welcome after the "Me First" ideologies so prevalent in some places today. Of course, I particularly welcome the UK contribution, but I note that there were Chinese divers there as well. It's rather banal to say this but it shows that different nations can work together successfully for the general good.

[scottish-guy]

.... this has become the never ending story!

You've just reminded me how pretty Limahl was in his day.

7475

Of course he's a horrible old scrote now and he'll probably rock up in Pattaya sometime soon.

Incidentally if anybody remembers Hylda Baker's "Not On Your Nellie" show - I hear that "Gilbert" has been living anonymously in Pattaya for decades.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-fCTfscZTI

[StevieWonders]

I think it's wonderful the king presided over the funeral of the Thai Navy Seal who died. Does anyone know if he visited the boys in hospital like the British queen did after the Manchester bombing?

[arsenal]

Scramble all mods if Frequent replies to the above post.

[francois]

Stevie, I believe you will find that the King did not preside over the funeral for Thai Seal who died.

[Smiles]

Scramble all mods if Frequent replies to the above post.
Why scramble ... its an obvious given that Frequency has replied to every post written on this board since 2004. Why stop now. He's a one man archive.

[cdnmatt]

Here's a Darwin candidate:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AB_ClgdEA4Q

Staarts about 6m or so. I didn't bother watching it really, but apparently the Thailand cave rescue was just a false flag and conspiracy theory to brainwash us. Something about it's too much of a coincidence the Thai cave rescue happened as the media was reporting on kids being seperated at the southern US border, hence it was all a staged event.

I didn't bother waiting to find, but I'm sure he ties it into the new world order later on, or some other such shit.

What the fuck is wrong with some people? What a dick.

[scottish-guy]

Apparently the delightful Elon Musk has gone on twitter and branded the lead diver (Brit Vern Unsworth) a paedophile because he didn't want to use Musk's mini-sub.

I did see the (now deleted) tweet being circulated at the time but I didn't capture it - but it's being widely reported in the UK media at least.

[francois]

Here's a Darwin candidate:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AB_ClgdEA4Q

Staarts about 6m or so. I didn't bother watching it really, but apparently the Thailand cave rescue was just a false flag and conspiracy theory to brainwash us.


You were watching this video; say it ain't so, matt.

[gerefan2]

You were watching this video; say it ain't so, matt.

Just (another) slip of the tongue!

[poshglasgow]

You've just reminded me how pretty Limahl was in his day.

7475

Of course he's a horrible old scrote now and he'll probably rock up in Pattaya sometime soon.

Incidentally if anybody remembers Hylda Baker's "Not On Your Nellie" show - I hear that "Gilbert" has been living anonymously in Pattaya for decades.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-fCTfscZTI

"Horrible old scrote?" Beauty is in the eye of the beholder! "Short time? Short time?"
7497

[Oliver2]

It's not often I find articles in The Guardian to my taste now that it's sold -out to the Right but this is an exception. Worth a read.....

https://www.theguardian.com/news/shortcuts/2018/jul/16/new-photo-thai-cave-boys-ordeal-saman-kunan

[frequent]

It's not often I find articles in The Guardian to my taste now that it's sold -out to the Right ... Any chance of a greater exposition of this fabulous conspiracy theory?

[Oliver2]

Read the article instead. It's more interesting and pertinent to the subject than my widely-shared views as a Guardian reader of forty years. Jonathon Jones has, in my view, sensed something very deep in Thai culture which those of us who love a Thai (or Thais) will recognise.

[frequent]

Read the article instead. It's more interesting and pertinent to the subject than my widely-shared views as a Guardian reader of forty years. Jonathon Jones has, in my view, sensed something very deep in Thai culture which those of us who love a Thai (or Thais) will recognise.A complete load of tosh, Oliver - the writer is discussing universal human values, nothing uniquely Thai whatsoever

[sglad]

Read the article instead. It's more interesting and pertinent to the subject than my widely-shared views as a Guardian reader of forty years. Jonathon Jones has, in my view, sensed something very deep in Thai culture which those of us who love a Thai (or Thais) will recognise.

Jonathan Jones must be a rookie journalist if he doesn't realise that all these pics have been carefully stage-managed by the state PR machinery. The one used in his article is a very familiar pose that we've seen many times before - only the photo being held is of you-know-who, past and present. Same with the notes being exchanged while the boys were still in the cave - the extremely charitable forgiveness of the parents towards the coach - dream on if you think they weren't 'guided' by counsellors and state minders as to what to say. And probably for good reason too as there's no point in fanning the flames and creating an atmosphere of hysteria which could have complicated the rescue process. The fact that these boys are "nobodies" within the social hierarchy - quite a few are hilltribe and/or stateless - has made it much easier to contain and manage the whole situation.

[frequent]

Jonathan Jones must be a rookie journalist if he doesn't realise that all these pics have been carefully stage-managed by the state PR machinery. The one used in his article is a very familiar pose that we've seen many times before - only the photo being held is of you-know-who, past and present. Same with the notes being exchanged while the boys were still in the cave - the extremely charitable forgiveness of the parents towards the coach - dream on if you think they weren't 'guided' by counsellors and state minders as to what to say. And probably for good reason too as there's no point in fanning the flames and creating an atmosphere of hysteria which could have complicated the rescue process. The fact that these boys are "nobodies" within the social hierarchy - quite a few are hilltribe and/or stateless - has made it much easier to contain and manage the whole situation.Agree 100%. Sadly Oliver's attention span didn't let him get beyond the first paragraph or two and realise that the message of the writer was in the last couple of sentences, not the first few

[frequent]

... my widely-shared views as a Guardian reader of forty years.I had a word with Polly, Oliver, and she asks if replacing the letter R in the masthead with a red star would help?

[gerefan2]

The boys are just about to be paraded live on Thai TV.....I hope the paparazzi don’t fuck up.

[lonelywombat]

I have my tv on now . have seen trailers for the last 2 hours. Of course they cannot bar one speak english
Hope they have a translator

[gerefan2]

Excellent live coverage now on Channel 24 on my Thai TV. With simultaneous translation. Channel News Asia, I think.

[Blacktouch]

It's on BBC News in the UK. Full interview with all the boys.

They seem very educated.

[Oliver2]

Remarkable poise and dignity. And of course gratitude...."getanyu" is (I believe) the Thai word. It goes beyond simply saying something like "thanks". It suggests something heart-felt, acknowledging that their lives have been changed ( in fact saved ) by the rescuers.

[lonelywombat]

This long report in Thursdays Age probably is the last of the story.
A great long article and I hope all the boys do well in the future.
https://www.theage.com.au/world/asia/boys-rescued-from-flooded-thai-cave-released-from-hospital-to-front-media-20180718-p4zs9w.html

[StevieWonders]

Remarkable poise and dignity. And of course gratitude...."getanyu" is (I believe) the Thai word. It goes beyond simply saying something like "thanks". It suggests something heart-felt, acknowledging that their lives have been changed ( in fact saved ) by the rescuers.A report today in the newspapers I read that the entire performance was scripted and all questions were vetted by psychologists so as not to add to the trauma the boys have suffered and will suffer. Not sure if anything of value can be inferred from the news conference therefore.

[Oliver2]

Of course they were coached; they were children confronted by the world's press so they needed advice. Does this mean that the words " poise and dignity" are inappropriate?

[frequent]

Of course they were coached; they were children confronted by the world's press so they needed advice. Does this mean that the words " poise and dignity" are inappropriate?Put simply you can make absolutely no reliable inference about their behaviour and personalities whatsoever

[gerefan2]

Put simply you can make absolutely no reliable inference about their behaviour and personalities whatsoever

So you’re saying that they are good actors then? Give them more credit ffs.

[scottish-guy]

Fail to see why anybody would want to make any reliable inference about their behaviour and personalities anyway - just be thankful they were rescued - anything more is verging on being creepy.

[sglad]

Of course they were coached; they were children confronted by the world's press so they needed advice. Does this mean that the words " poise and dignity" are inappropriate?

Not inappropriate but over the top. How often do we hear of children being described as poised and dignified? Sounds very archaic and colonial to me. I would have said they were pretty chilled, cool, unruffled or in good spirits considering what they've been through. I also thought they looked healthy and cute and I don't mean that in a sexual way.

And by lauding their poise and dignity, you are in fact suggesting that there is a correct way to behave under these circumstances and the behaviour they showed on TV was the correct one. So would you have censured them had they been uncomfortable, distressed or emotional which to me would have been perfectly natural and understandable considering what they went through?

Furthermore, to attribute their survival and good behaviour to Thainess and Thai culture is somewhat irrational, sentimental and misplaced, in my humble opinion. I think some farang subconsciously do it to justify their own choices, decisions and relationships re Thailand. In other words, it makes them feel good about themselves. Considering that quite a few of these boys, had they not been embraced by celebrity due to their misadventure, would have been viewed as second-class citizens, or, not be "seen" at all by the local population, all this mumbo jumbo about some "deep understanding of Thai culture from those of us who love Thais" is just a load of feel-good crap revealing no insight or deep understanding of human nature, let alone Thai culture.

In my opinion, what the boys had going for them - which I'm sure contributed to their survival in no small measure - is that they were young, athletic and conditioned to function as a team from their football training. They were disciplined and listened to their leader and still young enough to be free from the I-will-eat-you-first-before-you -eat-me survival instinct. Anyone who has ever played in a team sport or undergone military training as I have would understand what I mean. And most importantly, being rugged guys from the region, they understood the terrain and had a certain connection with their natural environment to be able to co-exist with it under the most challenging circumstances. You might have read about this connection with nature with regards to native American Indians and Australian Aboriginals. Put the fittest swimmer from Huamark or some nicely coiffed kept-boy from Pattaya in that cave and he may not have fared so well.

A note about citizenship for some of the boys and all the fuss some bored farangs with no life are kicking up about it. This is something that will be approached quietly and carefully by the Thais themselves when all the dust has settled. Citizenship not only for the boys but also their immediate families which means some precedents will be set and I'm sure the powers-that-be will want to tread carefully. The granting of citizenship itself is as easy as one wave of the sceptre of you-know-who as this clearly falls within his prerogative. Don't be surprised if the boys get an audience with him or his sister at some point; the welfare of hilltribe and stateless persons being a cause close to her heart. So all these armchair do-gooder farangs can rest and cut down on their blood pressure medicine and get back to the really important issues of man boys vs fem boys and how much to tip for an overnight off.

[poshglasgow]

Not inappropriate but over the top. How often do we hear of children being described as poised and dignified? Sounds very archaic and colonial to me. I would have said they were pretty chilled, cool, unruffled or in good spirits considering what they've been through. I also thought they looked healthy and cute and I don't mean that in a sexual way.

And by lauding their poise and dignity, you are in fact suggesting that there is a correct way to behave under these circumstances and the behaviour they showed on TV was the correct one. So would you have censured them had they been uncomfortable, distressed or emotional which to me would have been perfectly natural and understandable considering what they went through?

Furthermore, to attribute their survival and good behaviour to Thainess and Thai culture is somewhat irrational, sentimental and misplaced, in my humble opinion. I think some farang subconsciously do it to justify their own choices, decisions and relationships re Thailand. In other words, it makes them feel good about themselves. Considering that quite a few of these boys, had they not been embraced by celebrity due to their misadventure, would have been viewed as second-class citizens, or, not be "seen" at all by the local population, all this mumbo jumbo about some "deep understanding of Thai culture from those of us who love Thais" is just a load of feel-good crap revealing no insight or deep understanding of human nature, let alone Thai culture.

In my opinion, what the boys had going for them - which I'm sure contributed to their survival in no small measure - is that they were young, athletic and conditioned to function as a team from their football training. They were disciplined and listened to their leader and still young enough to be free from the I-will-eat-you-first-before-you -eat-me survival instinct. Anyone who has ever played in a team sport or undergone military training as I have would understand what I mean. And most importantly, being rugged guys from the region, they understood the terrain and had a certain connection with their natural environment to be able to co-exist with it under the most challenging circumstances. You might have read about this connection with nature with regards to native American Indians and Australian Aboriginals. Put the fittest swimmer from Huamark or some nicely coiffed kept-boy from Pattaya in that cave and he may not have fared so well.

A note about citizenship for some of the boys and all the fuss some bored farangs with no life are kicking up about it. This is something that will be approached quietly and carefully by the Thais themselves when all the dust has settled. Citizenship not only for the boys but also their immediate families which means some precedents will be set and I'm sure the powers-that-be will want to tread carefully. The granting of citizenship itself is as easy as one wave of the sceptre of you-know-who as this clearly falls within his prerogative. Don't be surprised if the boys get an audience with him or his sister at some point; the welfare of hilltribe and stateless persons being a cause close to her heart. So all these armchair do-gooder farangs can rest and cut down on their blood pressure medicine and get back to the really important issues of man boys vs fem boys and how much to tip for an overnight off.

While some of the content may be contentious, I thought this piece very well-written and thought-provoking. I do wonder how the inevitable Hollywood film will appear twelve months or so down the line? Will they, for example, offer parts to some of the rescued boys? I predict that Mr. Spielberg will direct.

[poshglasgow]

Fail to see why anybody would want to make any reliable inference about their behaviour and personalities anyway - just be thankful they were rescued - anything more is verging on being creepy.

Agree with SG. Let's be thankful that these boys are safely reunited with their families.

[sglad]

...I do wonder how the inevitable Hollywood film will appear twelve months or so down the line? Will they, for example, offer parts to some of the rescued boys? I predict that Mr. Spielberg will direct.

Who cares about the movie or who will act in them. Who cares whether they get to meet MU. What I do care about is that the Wild Boars and their coach get some long-term, tangible benefit from this experience, for example, a scholarship fund or trust to see them through university or whatever it is they choose to do in life. A few of them wanted to be navy seals which I thought was very touching and a fitting ambition. And them seals are mighty fit (ahem). These guys don't ordinarily get much of a chance in life. Have you seen close ups of Aek, the coach? He has crow's feet around his eyes and chaffed, leathery skin, which is quite typical of hilltribesmen living under tough weather conditions - not the face of a Pattaya pretty boy. Did you hear him speak and the words he chose? Extremely humble and deferential. No, not Thai modesty but the humility of someone who has been taught to know his place as a second-class citizen all his life. That part made me choke.

I sincerely hope an honest agent (oxymoron?) steps up and helps these guys to milk every satang out of this experience as surely as they will be milked and exploited by others.

[scottish-guy]

Fail to see why anybody would want to make any reliable inference about their behaviour and personalities anyway - just be thankful they were rescued - anything more is verging on being creepy.

One member has told me he feels the words above (which have been "liked" by 3 other members) suggest he has an unhealthy and sexually motivated interest in wanting to dig in to the "behaviour and personalities" of these boys.

I am happy to confirm that my comment did not mention or allude to any sexual motivation, and was simply intended to convey that I regard it as bizarre for anybody to take this level of interest in people they don't know, will never meet, and who are from a culture they will never fully understand. I see it almost like 'stalking' - and that's not a sexual accusation either!

It's also well worth pointing out that I didn't even read his contribution in the first place and the post wasn't even directed at him specifically - but hopefully he feels more at ease with my clarification (not apology as there is nothing to apologise for)

[Oliver2]

My feeling is one of sadness that this forum's coverage of an event which brought such happiness to so many has been sullied by inappropriate sexual innuendo. At least Elon Musk apologised.
Nevertheless, there were three likes. Three! so it must have been worth it. And I've learnt two important lessons. Firstly, the words "poised and dignified" are so charged with sexual significance that they should be used only with the greatest care. And secondly, one sentence in one post praising the handling of a Press Conference can be used as the basis for offensive allegations.
Perhaps there are two more; on this forum, any level of abuse is sanctified by the acquisition of "likes", and a PM is not....well, private.

[scottish-guy]

No "allegations" were made of anybody having a sexual interest in the story - if you can find any, point them out and if you can't I'd suggest you get off your high horse as it's a clapped-out non-starter.

While you're at it you might try to find any mainstream dictionary definition of the word "creepy" that includes any sexual reference - it seems to me it's all in the mind of those who are so easily taking offence

[bkkguy]

What I do care about is that the Wild Boars and their coach get some long-term, tangible benefit from this experience, for example, a scholarship fund or trust to see them through university or whatever it is they choose to do in life.

Naresuan University has already offered them all full scholarships for degree, masters and doctorate courses if they want to study there - and coped a bit of flack for the offer

Naresuan University offers 13 ‘Wild Boars’ full scholarships - The Nation, 13 July (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/national/30349966)



At least Elon Musk apologised.

<sarcasm>
and what a sincere and heartfelt apology it was - not at all prompted by his belated realisation of the impact of his negative tweets on his personal reputation and the share price of his companies!
</sarcasm>

I admit he was originally in a no win situation in the initial twitter storm about why is he not helping/is helping and his initial response was quite measured and sensible but he really showed his true colours once his proffered solution was rejected

bkkguy

[lonelywombat]

Foreign media slammed for pursuit of Wild Boars boys


report-cave.jpg

ABC News interviews one of the Wild Boars boys



Justice deputy permanent secretary Thawatchai Thaikhieu today expressed disappointment at the conduct of some foreign journalists who defied advice of psychiatrists and child welfare officials against interviewing the young members of the Wild Boars soccer team after they were discharged from the hospital.



“Some foreign media have acted below the professional standard which is something regrettable and unforgivable,” wrote Mr Thawatchai in his Facebook page. He was apparently responding to an interview that a correspondent of ABC News had with one of the young survivors from Tham Luang cave.



The interview created an uproar on the Thai social media after it was aired last night, prompting calls for Thai authorities to take action against the American journalist.



Full Story: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/foreign-media-slammed-pursuit-wild-boars-boys/

[frequent]

Oh christ I thought this was over

[scottish-guy]

... media have acted below the professional standard ...

This just in - there are no professional standards in the media

[gerefan2]

Oh christ I thought this was over

Not while he scum can make money from someone’s unfortunate or harrowing experience.

[kittyboy]

[QUOTE=Oliver2;246115]
My feeling is one of sadness that this forum's coverage of an event which brought such happiness to so many has been sullied by inappropriate sexual innuendo.
And I've learnt two important lessons. Firstly, the words "poised and dignified" are so charged with sexual significance that they should be used only with the greatest care.

/QUOTE]

What a load of bull shxt - You twisting the words "poised and dignified" into charged sexual significance is just stupid.

[arsenal]

You need to read the whole thing prpperly Kittybaby. You've completely misunderstood the entire dialogue and got yourself stuck up an intellectual tree. Again.

[gerefan2]

There was a great interview on a Thai channel this afternoon with the Thai doctor who stayed with them in the cave for 9 days.

Had subtitles and was very moving indeed.

One interesting thing that came out of it was the ready agreement of local farmers to lose their crops due to the amount water having to be flushed out of the cave into their fields. B/F tells me they were to be compensated, but even so.

They also showed unseen footage of operations inside the cave. I was gobsmacked at the number of people involved. There was a shot of about 30 guys carrying something really heavy (like a generator or something) on a long pole across their shoulders.

There were only a few shots of the boys and definitely no interviews with them. Was very well presented indeed.

[kittyboy]

You need to read the whole thing prpperly Kittybaby. You've completely misunderstood the entire dialogue and got yourself stuck up an intellectual tree. Again.

Why don't you explain it to me? I don't think you can. But go ahead and try.
I suspect your answer will be an evasion.
Please explain. I don't think you can and will engage in stupid bs hand waving

[arsenal]

Nice try. Read the whole dialogue or don't. It's up to you.

[kittyboy]

Nice try. Read the whole dialogue or don't. It's up to you.

Yea. It was a nice try on your part. You made a stupid post.

[arsenal]

I'm sure you're right.

[kittyboy]

I'm sure you're right.
I am glad you agree.
If you want to state your opinion - fine. Everyone has one and the are like assholes -they often stink.
When you try to pass off your opinion as more than opinion then you are a stupid fool.
I am glad you recognize your stupid foolishness

[arsenal]

Thank you for your kind words Kittybaby.

[kittyboy]

Thank you for your kind words Kittybaby.

You are welcome. I do try to treat stupid people with the kindness of trying to educate their minds.

[arsenal]

Someone needs a saucer of milk. Maybe get an adult to show you the posts you've missed..

[kittyboy]

Someone needs a saucer of milk. Maybe get an adult to show you the posts you've missed..

Maybe you should stop passing off your own stupid opinions as more than your own stupid opinions.

[arsenal]

Suggestion noted.

[kittyboy]

Suggestion noted.
Smart people understand the difference between their own opinions and facts.
Try going beyond noting that you pass off your own opinions as facts and enact the suggestion that you label your opinions as opinions.
And as my signature reads. Opinions are like assholes everyone has one and the all stink.

[paborn]

Kittyboy, I missed some of this and made a decision not to go back and laboriously piece it together. Having said that, you must realize that "tit for tat" is a childooh game. Best to move on...

[kittyboy]

Kittyboy, I missed some of this and made a decision not to go back and laboriously piece it together. Having said that, you must realize that "tit for tat" is a childooh game. Best to move on...
You are correct. It probably is best to move on. I am still on vacation so a bit bored and restless.

Back to topic.
I was in China for 10 days before returning to the USA. I was amazed at the interest shown by the ex pat community in this story.
As someone pointed out we do not know these kids but for many people it became personal. It was an almost happy ending.. the retired navy diver who died keeps the story in the almost happy ending category. Imho

[scottish-guy]

.... for many people it became personal. It was an almost happy ending...

Expect PM's - all I said was "creepy" and I got severely chastised - you've said much worse

:D

[kittyboy]

Expect PM's - all I said was "creepy" and I got severely chastised - you've said much worse

:D

Lol.. Thanks for the warning.
With the aid of your highlighting I can see how someone would misrepresent my comments.

[paborn]

Oh my God, is the phrase "happy ending" what this is about? No wonder I was lost it just never occured to me....

[frequent]

Oh my God, is the phrase "happy ending" what this is about? No wonder I was lost it just never occured to me....One of my favourite posters

[arsenal]

You need to read from post 162 to understand post 182. Then you'll see.

[frequent]

Keeping the dream alive for Lonely Oliver - "A candle parade featuring sculptures of the 13 members of a rescued youth football team, their rescue divers and Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha amazed crowds Saturday morning in Korat city." http://www.khaosodenglish.com/featured/2018/07/28/cave-rescue-prayuth-among-korat-candle-parade-themes/

[frequent]

Remember all those wankers - led by cdnmatt as I recall, blethering on about how Thailand was different - who claimed that there would be no repercussions for the coach for leading the boys into the caves? Read this story (http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/crimecourtscalamity/calamity/2018/07/03/coach-faces-charges-for-leading-boys-into-cave/) then - and remember this was while the boys were still inside the cave. Today's news - the boys are now all Thai citizens. As one wit quipped on Thaivisa "despite seasonal torrential rains already beginning, using their best judgement they decided to enter the cave thus proving they have what it takes to be thai"