Queen Mary’s 19-year-old son begins new chapter

Crown Prince Christian of Denmark was pictured arriving at the Guard Hussar Regiment (Gardehusarregimentet) on Monday to begin his military service. Queen Mary and King Frederik's 19-year-old son was dressed in jeans, sneakers and a navy jacket as he made his way to the gate, carrying a duffle bag. According to Billed Bladet, the heir to the Danish throne will be serving at the Guard Hussar Regiment in Slagelse for four months.

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Christian graduated from high school last June. Months later in September, the Crown Prince traveled to Africa to begin an extended stay. Prior to his departure, the Danish Royal House shared that Christian would "be involved in the daily operation of two farms," which would, "among other things, include practical and administrative tasks and also give The Crown Prince insight into local nature protection." 

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While in East Africa, Christian penned a personal message, which revealed his plans for 2025. "For almost three months I have been in East Africa. Everyday life down here is completely different from at home. The food, the culture, the climate, the wildlife, the tasks and the people make it an experience I will never forget," he wrote. "In recent weeks I have been working with nature conservation. I help monitor and register animals in the bush and look after the office on the farm."

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The Crown Prince also revealed that he was "learning a lot about life" there and had "helped build new houses for the employees." He added, "And I have also played some good football matches with the locals.But now I am also slowly starting to look forward to returning home to my family in Denmark and celebrating Christmas in a few weeks. And I am looking forward to new challenges! In February I will start as a conscript at the Gardehussarregimentet in Slagelse."

The royal teen was back in Denmark in December. He celebrated Christmas at Marselisborg Castle with his family and grandmother, Queen Margrethe. On New Year's Day, Christian joined his parents at a reception and dinner at Christian VII's Palace at Amalienborg. The Danish Royal House shared a photo of the Crown Prince with his parents from the event, writing (translated to English): "A very special moment from a very special New Year's Eve party. Last night was the first time that Their Majesties the King and Queen hosted the annual New Year's Eve party at Amalienborg. It was also the first time that His Royal Highness the Crown Prince participated in the traditional party."

Christian is first in line to the throne. He is the eldest of Queen Mary and King Frederik's four children. Their Majesties are also parents to Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. Christian became the Crown Prince in January 2024 following his father's ascension to the throne.