Just this week, Princess Leonor of Spain reached a huge milestone. She was advanced to 2nd-class midshipman’s rank, equivalent to a present day 4th-class second lieutenant. This important promotion raises her stature and authority. Today, she’s in the company of cadets at the General Military Academy and at the General Air Force Academy. King Felipe awarded her the high distinction of the Grand Cross of Naval Merit. The ensuing ceremony reflected her steadfast commitment to advancing military education.
At only 19, Leonor, the heir to the Spanish throne, is preparing for her third and final year of military training. Today, she is stationed at the San Javier Air Force Academy in Murcia, preparing herself for future missions. Her dedication to public service is evident by her most recent experience. She spent a month living aboard the frigate Blas de Lezo and is currently on a five month voyage aboard the naval training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano that began in January. Her trip along the way to Ecuador took her to many other fascinating Latin American countries. Her itinerary included a stop in New York, enriching her appreciation of global maritime operations.
Leonor wearing her spotless white division dress uniform during the presentation of Royal Dispatches. Her family welcomed her with open arms, including a tearful Queen Letizia and her sister, Infanta Sofia. In fact, the whole time she was collecting her dispatch during the ceremony. Despite the isolation that accompanied her promotion, it was a career-defining achievement in her military career. The Grand Cross of Naval Merit, awarded by King Felipe, is a fitting tribute to her success.
On Monday, Leonor, who has a Galician mother, proudly accepted the Gold Medal of Galicia in Santiago de Compostela. This accomplishment continues to strengthen her image as the hard-working member of the Spanish royal family. These extraordinary achievements have garnered the attention of the world. In May, she filmed a tearful video birthday wish to congratulate her sister Infanta Sofia on graduating from UWC Atlantic College in Wales.
The emotional exchange between Princess Leonor and Queen Letizia conveyed the importance of family support in the royal household. Their hug after the awards ceremony spoke volumes about how this achievement meant everything to Leonor. It filled her family with incredible pride and joy.
As she continues her military training and public service duties, Princess Leonor sets an example for young leaders in Spain and beyond. With every success, she cements her position as one of the most important players in the history of the Spanish monarchy.
