In a poignant display of maternal pride, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands was visibly moved as she watched her eldest daughter, Princess Catharina-Amalia, complete a significant military milestone. The 22-year-old princess officially concluded her General Military Training Course on Friday, earning the esteemed rank of Corporal during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence in Ermelo.
A Mother's Emotional Response
Queen Maxima, seated alongside other military mothers, was observed struggling to contain her emotions as she witnessed her daughter's achievement. The monarch could be seen holding back tears before capturing the moment with her own photographs. Following the formal proceedings, an emotional embrace was shared between mother and daughter, symbolising both personal pride and royal duty.
Princess Amalia's Military Journey
Princess Catharina-Amalia, who studies at the Dutch defence headquarters, has been actively engaging with the nation's armed forces for some time. Her comprehensive military introduction included remarkable experiences across all branches of service during 2022. These included controlling an F-16 fighter jet during a training flight at Volkel airbase and operating a submarine under supervision aboard the Zr.Ms. Sea Lion.
Her hands-on experience extended to ground operations as well, where she entered various military vehicles including a Leopard combat tank. Throughout these engagements, the future queen demonstrated particular interest in understanding daily military life, conversing with personnel including submariners about their challenging underwater existence.
Royal Family's Military Connections
The princess is not the only member of the Dutch royal family with strong military connections. Her father, King Willem-Alexander, is a licensed pilot who actively participates in military exercises. Last September, the monarch was photographed beaming as he took control of an army plane during the international Falcon Leap exercise at Eindhoven Air Base.
Dressed in full military uniform complete with Dutch flag insignia, the 58-year-old king joined personnel from multiple nations including the United States and United Kingdom in practising aerial manoeuvres. These exercises typically involve cargo preparation, relief supply drops, and paratrooper deployment coordination between international forces.
Continuing Royal Duties
With her training now complete, Princess Amalia will incorporate military uniform into her official duties, representing a new chapter in her royal responsibilities. The princess, who has two younger sisters - Princess Alexia and Princess Ariane - has previously completed exercises with the Royal Navy, Air Force, and Army, demonstrating her commitment to understanding all aspects of Dutch defence.
The royal family's statement confirmed that Princess Catharina-Amalia successfully completed the General Military Training Course on January 23rd, marking her formal transition to Corporal rank. This achievement represents both personal accomplishment and preparation for future constitutional responsibilities as heir to the Dutch throne.
