It was a very intense day in Zaragoza, with Princess Leonor as the main focus.
The day was divided into three events, during which the heir to the throne received various honors.
In the final event, where she was awarded the Medalla de Aragón, Leonor delivered a heartfelt speech to thank everyone for the recognitions she received.
Her speech was personal, reflecting on her life at the Military Academy.
The speech took place at the Catedral del Salvador in Zaragoza, where the princess also signed the honor book, just as she had in the previous two events.
Her speech was highly anticipated, as it was the first time she spoke publicly in six months, since her speech on her 18th birthday.
Like her previous speech in the Congress of Deputies, Leonor’s words were filled with personal touches.
She expressed deep gratitude to the city of Zaragoza and its people and shared details about her military training.
She spoke about the academic, intellectual, physical, and technical challenges she faced at the Academy and how she now feels a strong bond with her fellow cadets.
The speech was well-received and applauded by all attendees.
This event was particularly significant as it was the first time Leonor spoke in public without her parents, the King and Queen, providing her emotional support.
Princess Leonor has participated in many solo events since her debut at the Cervantes Institute three years ago, but none were as institutionally important as this one.
Although her parents were not present, the senior members of the Royal Household were there to support her.
She also felt the warmth and support of the citizens and authorities.
After leaving the Zaragoza City Hall, Leonor confidently greeted the public, receiving cheers and applause from many locals who gathered to see her.
Here is Princess Leonor’s full speech in Zaragoza:
“President of Aragón, Minister of Defense, President of the Parliament, Mayor of Zaragoza, authorities, ladies, and gentlemen. I especially greet all the people of Aragón who are supporting me on this exciting morning.
When I arrived in Zaragoza on August 17th, I had high expectations, partly due to everything my father had told me, though I also knew some stages would be challenging. I came to the Military Academy eager to learn and meet both my classmates and those from other classes I would be training with.
I can say that my experience here has far exceeded what I imagined ten months ago. In Zaragoza, in Aragón, I have felt at home, welcomed, and supported in a land that will always be part of my life. There are only five weeks left before I leave and receive my officer’s commission, and I am already starting to miss you all!
Not only have I trained as a cadet, but I have also come to appreciate the academic, intellectual, physical, and technical demands that this entails. This has made me value the Army and our Armed Forces even more. Here, I have met young people of my generation and lived alongside them. I assure you that what we experience during our training at the Academy bonds us forever and helps us mature and grow through camaraderie, the guidance of our leaders and teachers, and the support of everyone at the Academy who encourages us to keep progressing and improving. Here, we have sworn an oath to the flag, overcome moments that required great effort and teamwork, and shared both joy and hardship. Above all, we have learned a lot.
In these months, I have felt the respect and kindness of the people of Aragón who are also with me on this important morning. Your support has been and continues to be constant, from the Aljafería to the Plaza del Pilar and the Catedral del Salvador, historical places where tradition and symbolism strongly resonate in the hearts of the people of Aragón and also the Crown. I am truly grateful for what I have experienced here during this time and for everything this city has given me.
Today is a special day because the affection of many people from this land is reflected in the honors you bestow upon me: the title of Honorary Daughter of Zaragoza, the Medal of the Parliament, and the Medalla de Aragón. My father experienced something similar almost 40 years ago, and we have talked about it a lot these days. Following in his footsteps means a lot to me.
Thank you, Zaragoza. Thank you, Aragón. Thank you to everyone who has made it possible for me to feel like one of you during this time. Thank you!”