Queen Máxima sworn in as reservist

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands has been sworn in as a reservist.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Royal Military Academy in Breda in the presence of King Willem-Alexander and the Princess of Orange. Alongside the Queen were 23 other reservists.

Photo: Ministerie van Defensie

Commander of the Land Forces, Lieutenant General Jan Swillens, told the group, “Serving and protecting the Netherlands and its interests is a matter that concerns us all. And everyone can contribute to it—whether you are a baker, a nurse, a security officer, or the Queen herself. As of today, you have a second role. A second responsibility. A second team you can count on. In doing so, you add something to our armed forces that cannot be expressed in terms of equipment or investments. Ultimately, it comes down to people like you—people who make a conscious choice for something that reaches beyond themselves.”

The other reservists include 14 healthcare workers from hospitals working with Defence and four specialists from the Communication & Engagement Command. Three will go on to become guards or security personnel with the National Reserve Corps, while another three will begin working with the Engineer Corps and National Operations.

Photo: Ministerie van Defensie

Queen Máxima started training in early 2026 and took her last lessons last Wednesday, which included a lesson in mine clearance and explosives identification. She has now been promoted to lieutenant colonel and assigned as a reservist to the King’s Military Household. She will fulfil her role as a staff officer within the Royal Netherlands Army.