Trat is 315 kilometer southeast of Bangkok, and is the easternmost Thai province edging the Gulf of Thailand.
       It was surmised that the title “Trat” was a corruption of “Krat” which is the name of a tree plenty in Trat Province and used in broom production. In Ayutthaya period during the reign of King Naresuan, the town was called “Bann Bang Pra”.

While King Rama V was on the throne, Thai government inevitably made a treaty with France granting the area of current Trat Province to the western country in order that France would withdraw its force from Chanta Buri Province.  Later, on March 23, 1906, the King had to grant areas, namely Pratabong, Siem Reap and Sri Sophon to France in exchange with Trat, islands and towms on the right bank of Mekomg River. Thus,Trat residents regard March 23 as the “Independence Day” every year.  They also built up King Rama V Monument at the City hall to commemorate the King’s attempt to keep Trat with Thailand.

On January 17, 1941, during Indochina War, French Squadron transgressed Thailand’s territorial waters. Thai Flotilla came to protect the land.  Thus, the war which was later known as “Ko Chang Naval Battle” began.  Thai Troop won and managed to drive out French Squadron.  However, Thai side lost three warships, namely Songkhla, Chon Buri and Thon Buri as well as some naval officers.  Therefore, on the date of every year, Thai Naval Army holds the annual merit-making day to dedicate to those who sacrificed their lives in their effort to protect the country.

 Thai version ภาษาไทย