Illuminating the Possibilities: The Untold Story of the Thai Cave Rescue
On Wednesday, September 24, 44 adults sat spellbound while Josh Morris recounted the story of the impossible rescue of the 12 members of the Wild Boar football team and their coach from a flooded cave in Northern Thailand and his own role in it. We were fascinated to learn the inside story and intricate details of this incredible feat which involved innovative cave diving methods, cross-cultural diplomacy, and decisive action. Josh told the story with both authority and humility as he gave us insights into his own and others’ decision making process as well as the incredible resilience of the boys themselves. Many in the room were moved to tears, and all felt inspired by the larger story of how people from diverse cultures and walks of life joined together for a common cause: to save these boys’ lives.
Description:
In July 2018, the world watched as the seemingly impossible rescue of twelve members of the Wild Boar football team and their coach unfolded in northern Thailand. Against the odds, and with the tragic loss of two Thai divers, all thirteen were brought safely to the surface from the flooded Tham Luang cave. Behind the scenes, the operation hinged on more than bravery—it demanded cutting-edge cave diving techniques, swift diplomacy, and clear-headed decision-making.
On July 6, Josh Morris found himself in a military briefing room discussing plans to divert water. He could not have foreseen how his eighteen years of cave exploration, fluency in Thai, and experience navigating both corporate and government spheres would suddenly converge, placing him at the heart of the rescue. Within hours, he was drawn into the core of the effort, serving as chief international coordinator and liaison between the global team of cave divers, the U.S. Air Force Pararescue Specialists (PJs), and senior Thai officials.
Josh’s path—as entrepreneur, adventurer, climbing developer, and cave explorer—had quietly readied him for this challenge. His habit of quick learning, gift for working outside formal hierarchies, and talent for earning trust made him a vital bridge between parties. He helped leaders sift through and share key facts, shaping urgent decisions amid deep uncertainty. For his role, Josh was named Knight Commander (Second Class) by the King of Thailand.
Presenter:
Josh Morris first came to Chiang Mai in 1999 through the Princeton in Asia program. He began by teaching English at Payap University, but soon turned toward his true calling: rock climbing. He built a climbing wall in Chiang Mai and founded Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures. A seasoned caver and expedition leader, Josh has led teams exploring uncharted cave passages across Thailand.
In 2010 Josh founded The Progression Group, a multicultural organization dedicated to inspiring individuals, communities, and organizations to fuel progression and achieve their highest potential through transformational experiences focused on personal growth, meaningful connection, and shared purpose. Josh collaborates with businesses, NGOs, and governments to build sustainable futures through education, personal development, business strategy, and cross-cultural communication. He provides leadership training across Asia and has delivered experiences in the US, Australia, and other regions.
