U.S. Navy Presents Highest Civilian Award To Hollywood Star Tom Cruise

Hollywood actor Tom Cruise has been awarded the U.S. Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest civilian honour given by the Navy.

The award was presented by the U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro on December 17, 2024, during a ceremony held at Longcross Studios in London, where Cruise is currently working.

The 62-year-old actor received the recognition for his “outstanding contributions” to the Navy and Marine Corps through his films, including Top Gun, Born on the Fourth of July, and A Few Good Men.

According to the Navy, Cruise has helped raise public awareness about the sacrifices and dedication of servicemen and women.

In his acceptance speech, Cruise expressed pride in receiving the honour, calling it an “extraordinary acknowledgement.” He said, “I admire all of the servicemen and women. I know in life, something that is very true to me is that to lead is to serve, and I know that to my core.”

The Navy highlighted the impact of Cruise’s 1986 film Top Gun, which became a cultural phenomenon and major increased military recruitment. Recruitment tables were set up outside theatres after the movie’s release.

The 2022 sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, was also praised for bringing nostalgia to older audiences and sparking interest among younger viewers in Navy careers.

The Navy said that the sequel effectively showcased the Navy’s advanced capabilities and highlighted the skill sets and opportunities it offers.

Cruise’s roles in other films like Mission: Impossible also acknowledged themes of duty and perseverance.

On social media, fans celebrated Cruise’s award. One user commented, “Tom Cruise really out here turning ‘Mission: Impossible’ into ‘Mission: Inspirational.” Another wrote, “Top Gun: Maverick is a mighty fine film that fuses the honour of duty and the importance of family.”

Secretary Del Toro, in a post on X, said, “It is my honour to present the Distinguished Public Service award to Mr. Tom Cruise for his continued support of our Navy & Marine Corps team. Your work has inspired generations to pursue careers of service to our country!”

While Cruise’s contributions have been widely praised, some critics have raised concerns about military-positive films like Top Gun being used as recruitment tools.

The Navy frequently collaborates with Hollywood, offering on-site filming and allowing personnel to appear as extras to ensure accurate portrayals.

Cruise thanked the cast and crew who worked with him over the years, saying their efforts made these films successful. He added, “I’m happy I have been able to be a source of inspiration to many of the sailors who serve today or have served in the past.”

The Distinguished Public Service Award is the Navy’s way to recognise nearly 40 years of Cruise’s support for the military. His next film, Mission: Impossible- The Final Reckoning, is set to release in May 2025.

References: LATimes, Republic World

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