Prince Gabriel's big military milestone brings Belgium's royal family together

Prince Gabriel has reached a new chapter in his young royal life, with his family gathering in Brussels to mark his graduation from the Royal Military Academy.

The 23-year-old Prince was joined by King Philippe, Queen Mathilde and his elder sister, Crown Princess Elisabeth, for the formal ceremony on Thursday.

Wearing his military uniform, Gabriel took part in the graduation proceedings after completing three years of training at the prestigious academy. 

He exchanged a memorable handshake with his father, the King, during the ceremony.

Gabriel graduated with a degree in Social and Military Sciences, joining fellow students from the 162nd Social and Military Sciences class, as well as graduates from the 176th Polytechnic Class and several Special Division courses.

There was a strong military presence throughout the occasion, with both King Philippe and Princess Elisabeth appearing in their official Belgian Army uniforms.