Queen Máxima will become a part-time soldier: she has reported as a reservist. That reports RTL News based on sources. Last week she would have picked up all her equipment in Soesterberg to start the training program this week.
If the queen goes through the same process as other reservists, she has already completed the application, including psychological and physical tests. Reservists then undergo training for about two weeks at the barracks. They are only allowed to go home at the weekend. Máxima will learn to shoot and read maps, among other things. When a major conflict arises and the deployment of professional soldiers alone is insufficient, reservists are called in.
In doing so, the Queen follows the example of Crown Princess Amalia, who started working as a working student at Defensity College, a program of the Ministry of Defense for students pursuing higher professional or academic studies. Almost two weeks ago, Amalia completed the General Military Training, after which she was promoted to corporal.
Queen Máxima and Princess Amalia are therefore higher in military rank than King Willem-Alexander. The king completed his military service, worked as a watch officer in the navy and served in the army and air force. But Willem-Alexander has no longer been an actively serving soldier since he became king in 2013. As a member of the government, he also has supreme command.
Also read
Although Amalia will not become commander-in-chief, the Oranges do have a bond with the armed forces
The journalistic principles of NRC
