In the aftermath of the disaster, the area was used to keep victims’ bodies until they could be identified. Afterwards, the wall was built, with the names of the victims’ countries, as a permanent reminder.
Held in bright sunshine, the quiet ceremony attracted about 100 people, including local villagers, police officers and foreigners. Also present were the deputy president of Mai Khao Tambon Administration Organization (OrBorTor), Wirat Makaew; and Brad Kenny, Larry Amsden and Pat James of the Phuket US Navy League, which maintains the wall.
After Buddhist, Muslim and Christian prayers for the dead, Mr Wirat, the Navy League officials and others hung wreaths along the wall.
Mr Wirat said afterwards, “I hope the ceremony will bring encouragement to the victims’ relatives, and that they will feel better knowing that we have never stopped caring about their lost loved ones.”