King Carl XVI Gustaf made an historic gesture as he marked his country’s Veterans’ Day.

The Swedish king presented the prestigious Military Cross of the Order of the Sword, Second Class to Lieutenant Colonel Liridona Dauti, making her the first woman outside the country’s royal family to be given the award.

Lieutenant Colonel Liridona Dauti was recognised for the bravery and conduct in Afghanistan in 2011. Major Anders Eckerberg also received the Military Cross of the Order of the Sword, Second Class which is given for personal bravery when a person’s own life is at risk. 

The presentations came as King Carl Gustaf and his son, Prince Carl Philip, were in Stockholm to attend the National Veterans Ceremony at the Maritime Museum.

The heir to the throne, Crown Princess Victoria, attended a ceremony in Gothenburg. 

The ceremonies held on Veterandagen honour those who are serving in Sweden’s military now, those who have previously served, and those who have lost their lives in service. 

The Crown Princess’s attendance in Gothenberg was significant as it is a region with over 15,000 veterans. Held in Gustaf Adolf Square, the ceremony saw the heir to the throne lay a wreath to honour fallen soldiers. 

After the ceremony was over, Crown Princess Victoria spent several minutes speaking with veterans there.