Will Cadet Leonor have privileges at the Military Academy?

Princess Leonor of Spain has just started her training at the General Military Academy in Zaragoza. As heir to the throne, will she receive special privileges compared to ordinary cadets?

The Royal House insists that the Princess of Asturias will not receive preferential treatment in her military studies. However, some anti-monarchists highlight some well-marked exceptions that cadet Leonor will have.

Any sign of discontent from Leonor about military life could damage the image of the Crown.

That’s why she will have to keep a positive attitude, rise early, live in the community, and accept the rigorous training.

Leonor is there simply to do her duty, not as a princess. But she can’t completely detach herself from her royal role.

Some unavoidable exceptions for Cadet Leonor

Although Leonor agrees to receive the same education as other cadets, some modifications apply:

• She will complete the 2-year course in only 1 year. An accelerated program commensurate with her status.
• No superior will reprimand or discipline the King’s daughter as he would a regular cadet.
• Certain informal privileges are a given, such as private time with family or security.

Although Leonor may not enjoy overtly special treatment, allowances are made discreetly.

Leonor will have to blend in

To appear more approachable, Leonor has adopted a standard military-issue digital watch for her early days, rather than a fancy watch.

It is a Decathlon brand watch, model Chronometer Running W500S. A black plastic accessory, digital, waterproof, and used to monitor the progress of training. Its price is $20.

She has also followed the rules prohibiting bold makeup, jewelry, and manicures. And she tries to do her hair according to the rules.

These measures help Leonor blend in visually among cadets from diverse economic and social backgrounds, which she is not used to since she studied at an elite school in Madrid and a prestigious boarding school in Wales.

Leonor must maintain a balance during her time at the academy.

Cadet Leonor will strive to receive royalty-free military training, but her unique role requires some exceptions.

By accepting the rigors of the academy, she hopes to prove herself a worthy heiress defined by more than just royal privilege.