Crown Prince Christian, the eldest son of King Frederik and Queen Mary, has shared an exciting update revealing his plans to join the military.

In a recent post on the Danish royal family’s official Instagram, the 19-year-old, who recently celebrated his birthday, gave a rare glimpse into his gap year before announcing his career plans.

He wrote: “I’ve learned so much about life here, and I’ve helped build new homes for the staff. I’ve also enjoyed playing some great football matches with the locals. But now, I’m starting to look forward to returning home to Denmark to be with my family and celebrate Christmas in a few weeks. I’m also excited for what’s next—starting in February, I’ll begin my training as a military officer at the Guardhouse Regiment in Slagelse.”

The post included several personal photos of Christian engaged in various tasks. One image shows him helping unload bricks, while another captures him playing football.

Christian left for East Africa on September 4 and is set to return home by the end of the year. A statement released by the Danish palace in August explained: “On September 4, HRH Crown Prince Christian will depart for an extended stay in East Africa.

During his time there, he will assist in the daily operations of two farms, engaging in both practical and administrative tasks, and gaining insights into local nature conservation. He is expected to return to Denmark in December.”

The statement further emphasized that the stay would be private, with no further details shared publicly.

Christian’s upcoming military service mirrors his father’s early career. King Frederik, who spent much of his youth in the military, served in the Royal Life Guards’ infantry regiment and the elite Royal Frogmen Corps, a special forces unit of the Danish navy.

In 2000, Frederik trained at The Flight School and became a reserve captain in the air force. Over the years, he has held several military positions, including commander of the navy and colonel in the army and air force by 2010.

In the coming weeks, Christian will return home in time for Christmas, reuniting with his parents and siblings—Princess Isabella, 17, and 13-year-old twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. The Danish royal family typically spends Christmas at Marselisborg Palace in Aarhus, Jutland, with King Frederik and Queen Mary hosting for the first time since their reign began.

Christian officially became Crown Prince when his father ascended the throne on January 14, 2024, following the unexpected abdication of Queen Margrethe.