Princess Amalia became visibly emotional as she embraced Queen Máxima during a proud family celebration marking the Dutch monarch’s latest milestone.
Joined by King Willem-Alexander and Princess Ariane, the heir to the throne showed her support as her mother successfully completed the first phase of military training to become a reservist in the Royal Netherlands Army.
The Dutch royal family gathered at the Trip van Zoudtlandt barracks in Breda on Friday, May 29, where the Queen received her military beret after completing the Algemene Militaire Opleiding (AMO), the first stage of her training to become a reservist in the Royal Netherlands Army.
© ShutterstockThe emotional ceremony featured several touching family moments.
Photographs captured Princess Amalia embracing her mother as emotions ran high following the presentation, while King Willem-Alexander was also seen sharing a warm hug with the Queen.
© ShutterstockIn another family photo, the royals posed together on the military base, visibly proud of Máxima’s accomplishment. The family’s attendance came as a surprise for the Queen.
Crown Princess Amalia and Princess Ariane joined the King to witness the important occasion after Máxima completed a demanding 24-hour field exercise that included overnight maneuvers.
© ShutterstockFor the event, King Willem-Alexander and Princess Amalia both wore official military combat uniforms. Amalia’s appearance carried special significance, as the future Queen completed her own basic military training earlier this year.
After graduating from the program in January, she earned the rank of corporal within the Royal Netherlands Army. The ceremony included the traditional “petten af, baretten op” (“caps off, berets on”) command.
© PPEFollowing the arrival march, Máxima officially exchanged her cap for a military beret, which was adjusted by one of her instructors.
The Queen received a beret featuring the Dutch lion emblem on a ponceau-red background, identifying her role within the Main Staff of the Royal Netherlands Army.
© DPPA/Sipa USAMeanwhile, Princess Ariane opted for a civilian look rather than military attire. The young royal wore a spring-ready ensemble featuring a patterned green-and-white blouse paired with white trousers.
Her loose blonde hair and natural makeup added a fresh, relaxed touch while complementing the formal atmosphere of the military base. Queen Máxima began her military journey in February, entering the program as a private soldier.
© DPPA/Sipa USAThe initiative was designed to help promote and normalize the role of reservists in Dutch society, a cause that has contributed to growing interest in voluntary military service.
© DPPA/Sipa USADefense Academy officials have publicly praised the monarch’s dedication, noting that she helps motivate and inspire others through her participation.
Having completed the first phase of training, the Queen will now continue with specialized modules focused on military operations and logistics. Once all requirements are fulfilled, Máxima is expected to receive the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel.
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