A commemorative ceremony marking the 400th anniversary of the French Navy brought a strong naval and civic presence to Antibes, where senior officials and young trainees gathered for a formal military occasion focused on training, service and tradition.
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco attended the event as part of his role as a reserve officer in the French Navy. He was welcomed by local and regional representatives, including Antibes mayor Jean Leonetti, alongside senior state officials and military leadership, among them counter-admiral Arnaud Tranchant, as well as lawmakers Éric Pauget and Alexandra Borchio Fontimp.
Following military honours and official speeches, Prince Albert II presented insignia to 23 participants from the Antibes cohort of the Préparations Militaires Marine programme, recognising the completion of a year of structured naval training. He also awarded top cadets from training centres across the Alpes-Maritimes and Var regions, highlighting achievement and commitment among the young recruits.
In total, more than 220 trainees from nine PMM centres took part in the wider commemorations, which included public demonstrations, workshops and presentations showcasing the French Navy’s operational roles and its engagement with youth development.
The anniversary event underscored themes of discipline, cohesion and public service, reinforcing the Navy’s presence within regional communities and its ongoing efforts to attract and train the next generation of personnel.
Image courtesy of Michaël Alesi / Palais princier