Cadets Visit Thailand Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy

Cadets from the Departments of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership and Systems Engineering visited Thailand and the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (CRMA) from 19-25 September 2015 as part of a leadership development exchange and cultural immersion opportunity. Cadets Avrie Welton, Michael Evans, Jordan Komm, Grant Van Orden, Morgan Rennekamp and Sean Monsees, under the leadership of LTC Paul Evangelista and MAJ(P) Nicholas Bugajski, represented USMA and furthered strategic USARPAC objectives through engagements with Thai counterparts at CRMA. After receiving a country in-brief from JUSMAGTHAI, the U.S. Security Cooperation Office in Bangkok, Thailand, USMA representatives traveled to CRMA located about two hours outside of Bangkok in Nakhon Nanook, Thailand. While there, USMA representatives had the opportunity to talk with CRMA leadership and cadets about USMA programs and leadership development systems. Key topics included the West Point Leadership Development System (WPLDS), character development initiatives, a discussion on characteristics of effective leaders, and the Sandhurst competition. USMA cadets briefed the CRMA Dean and academic leaders on WPLDS and facilitated a leader challenge exercise with CRMA tactical officers. USMA Thai exchange cadets supported the leader challenge exercise with a video recorded translation of the script in their native language. Other events included a tour of CRMA facilities, attending a significant retirement parade, Muay Thai kick-boxing instruction from the CRMA physical development Muay Thai instructor, and an out-brief with the CRMA Superintendent of cadets followed by a traditional dinner hosted by CRMA leaders. USMA representatives concluded the trip with a number of cultural experiences to include visiting the grand palace, Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, and attending a professional Muay Thai kick-boxing fight in Bangkok.