Princess Leonor of Spain, future queen and heir to the throne, reached a new milestone in her military career by being named ensign student of Infantry this Tuesday.
This achievement comes after completing the first of three years of her military training at the General Military Academy (AGM) in Zaragoza.
Her father, King Felipe VI, will present her with the office that officially accredits her in a ceremony to be held this Wednesday, July 3.
Princess Leonor: Infantry Ensign
The Spanish Government has approved the decrees naming Leonor as an officer of the Spanish Army and awarding her the Grand Cross of Military Merit with white badge, in recognition of her outstanding efforts and achievements.
Leonor began her training at the AGM on 17 August 2023. During these ten and a half months, she has demonstrated her dedication and commitment, culminating her first year with honors.
At the end of August, the princess will enter the Navy Academy as a frigate ensign to continue her training in the second year, followed by a third year at the Air Academy.
Since entering the AGM and after turning 18 on October 31, when she was sworn in to the Constitution in Congress as crown princess, Leonor has been undergoing the rigors of her military training.
This is just the beginning of her journey, as she has two more years of training before enrolling in university.
In January of next year, Leonor will begin her time as a midshipman on the training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano. Although it is not yet clear whether she will complete the six-month voyage or only part of it, this experience will be crucial to her development.
During the 2025-2026 academic year, Leonor will complete her training at the Air Academy.
At the end of this period, she will graduate with the rank of lieutenant of Land and Air, as well as naval ensign, heading her promotion.
King Felipe VI, like his daughter, also trained in the three armies before beginning his university studies, hence the importance of this tradition in the Spanish royal family.
What is an ensign student of Infantry?
The title of “ensign student of Infantry” that Leonor now holds is a recognition of her effort and dedication at the General Military Academy and accredits her as an officer of the Army and marks a milestone in her military preparation.
The rank of ensign is the lowest among army officers and performs duties similar to those of lieutenant.
Undoubtedly, it is a significant step in her training and prepares her for future challenges in her military career and as future Queen of Spain.