Spain’s Princess Leonor finishes military training in Murcia with historic honours

With only ten days remaining at the San Javier Air Academy in Murcia, the heir presumptive to the Spanish throne, Princess Leonor, has once again captured the Region of Murcia’s attention, receiving two prestigious acknowledgements from the nation’s military.

Historic military honours and local recognition for the heir to the Spanish throne

To be specific, the Princess of Spain was made into a Cadet Lieutenant, a temporary rank for completing her academic cycle at the General Air and Space Academy, located in San Javier, Murcia. The second award bestows her with the Grand Cross of Aeronautical Merit with white distinction, an honour which Princess Leonor’s father, King Felipe VI, also received in 1988 when he concluded his own training at the very same academy. 

Having already received the Military and Naval Merit crosses in previous years, this final accolade completes her traditional trifecta of military honours. The princess has also received the Gold Medal of the Region of Murcia, the highest honour awarded by the region, for her work in San Javier.

A lasting bond with the Murcia community

This prestigious local medal solidifies a deep, enduring bond between the future queen and the Region of Murcia. Beyond the strict confines of the military base, Leonor’s presence has been a source of immense local pride, reinforcing the historical ties between the Murcian coastline and the Spanish Royal Family. Her time spent training over the Mar Menor has not only shaped her skills as a pilot, but has also left a mark on the local community, which has enthusiastically embraced her as one of their own during this pivotal chapter of her life.

Preparing for the throne and civilian life

Three years ago, Princess Leonor’s journey began at the General Military Academy of Zaragoza, followed by a demanding, but rewarding naval deployment aboard the iconic training ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano. Together, these placements have prepared her to one day hold the supreme command of the Spanish Armed Forces.

The princess and her father recently completed a joint flight together, piloting separate Pilatus PC-21 aircraft side-by-side over the Region of Murcia.

In September, Princess Leonor will transition back to civilian life, this time in order to pursue higher education. She is set to study Political Science at the Carlos III University of Madrid.