Máxima of the Netherlands surprised everyone last week with her unexpected appearance at the Feria de Abril in Seville. A few days later, the wife of King Willem-Alexander once again draws attention by becoming a reservist in the Armed Forces for a day, swapping the flamenco dress for a military uniform. The consort was seen this Monday in the village of Geulhem alongside a group of healthcare personnel in training, accompanying them in the various activities planned for the day.
The military day began early with a breakfast and a talk with the other attendees. Then, the queen, dressed in camouflage uniform and with a backpack, accompanied the other students and tried at all times to keep up with the group.
The intensive training program lasts eight weeks and includes different activities. The candidates receive, among others, shooting lessons, orientation classes, and must acquire basic military skills, both theoretical and practical.
Queen Máxima of the Netherlands surprises everyone by swapping the flamenco dress for a military uniform
A task that was not easy, judging by the signs of fatigue she showed at some point. However, thanks to her adventurous spirit, the Dutch queen rose to the occasion and participated in various scheduled activities such as climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining.
Through the photographs that the Dutch Royal House has shared on their social media profile, the difficulty Máxima faced is evident. It is worth noting that this is not the first time the queen has engaged in this type of activity.
Last year, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands visited the same Armed Forces training center to meet with the Engineers Regiment. However, it was not until this occasion that, in addition to wearing the uniform, she joined the physical activities.
The big difference between Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and Queen Letizia
Unlike Queen Letizia, Máxima does keep an institutional role in the military area. In the case of the wife of Felipe VI, she doesn't perform any role in the Armed Forces. It is her husband who holds the position of Captain General of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force.
Queen Letizia does accompany her husband to parades and tributes. However, now it is her daughter Leonor who follows in her father's footsteps, receiving military training to become the head of the three armies in the future.
Who will indeed be exempt from receiving military training is the eldest daughter of Queen Máxima of the Netherlands. For the heiress, it will not be mandatory to wear the military uniform because in her country the king doesn't hold the title of head of the Armed Forces. It would be quite different if she surprises everyone by voluntarily training in this discipline.