The big day had arrived for Princess Leonor. The oath of the Princess was an exciting and significant moment.
The future Queen of Spain was the center of attention at this very special ceremony.
Article summary
At the Military Academy of Zaragoza, Princess Leonor was accompanied by her parents, King Felipe and Queen Letizia, who did not want to miss this important event for their daughter, the Princess of Asturias.
However, the Infanta Sofia was unable to attend due to her academic commitments in Wales, at the UWC Atlantic College.
Princess Leonor’s Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Princess Leonor, along with 410 other cadets, wore the dress uniform of the Spanish Army.
This historic uniform consists of red trousers and a navy blue jacket with gold buttons.
In addition, for the first time, the Princess of Asturias wore a Spanish hat with a feather. The color of the feather varies according to the rank of the soldier, being red for first and second year cadets and white for third year cadets and commanders.
After the singing of the Spanish anthem, King Felipe reviewed the troops, walking directly in front of his daughter, who, according to military protocol, remained motionless without making any gesture. This image went down in history.
The flag used for the swearing-in ceremony has a long history and was ordered by Queen Maria Christina to be embroidered and placed in the middle of the groups of cadets to be sworn in.
The same flag was kissed by King Juan Carlos and, years later, by King Felipe.
Princess Leonor followed the tradition of her predecessors and also swore allegiance to her country in front of her proud parents.
Following tradition, Leonor kissed the flag after taking off her hat, and then put it back on when the gesture was over.
King Felipe’s speech to Princess Leonor
After the oath, King Felipe took the floor to dedicate a heartfelt message to his daughter, who will one day take his place.
He reminded Leonor that the commitment she was about to make was a great responsibility for Spain.
The King emphasized that the Crown symbolizes the unity and permanence of the country and that the oath before the flag and his affection for Zaragoza and Aragon, where the ceremony took place, will be part of Leonor’s best memories.
The King also stressed that Leonor must always remember that her responsibility is to serve Spain with energy, determination and true passion, in all circumstances and at all times.
Princess Leonor listened attentively to her father’s words, along with her companions, demonstrating her commitment and readiness to assume her future role as the future Queen of Spain.
