On April 16, Cambodia’s Acting Head of State Hun Sen posted on social media about a battle that changed his life 51 years earlier. He recalled being severely wounded and losing sight in his left eye at approximately 6 a.m. on April 16, 1975, during the civil war, when he was a commander. Reflecting at the same hour 51 years later, he recalled having been unconscious and in a critical condition because of his injuries.
Hun Sen said the unit under his direct command suffered 38 casualties, including himself as its commander. He expressed sorrow that, although he survived, nearly 30 of his comrades had been killed. The article presents his recollection as a reminder of war’s brutality and the value of peace.
Hun Sen, a former prime minister serving as Acting Head of State at the time of the post, said the painful experience should serve as a warning. He described war as cruel and said he did not want future generations to endure such suffering. He concluded with New Year wishes to the Cambodian people for lasting peace and prosperity.
File photo.
