Oscar-nominated Hollywood star Tom Cruise can add yet another accolade to his name. Not only is he the man who has carried out the world’s most famous impossible missions, the Top Gun hero now has been awarded the US Navy’s highest civilian honour for “outstanding contributions” to the military through his screen roles.
As reported by BBC, the Distinguished Public Service Award was presented to Cruise during a ceremony on Tuesday at the Longcross Film Studios in Surrey. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presented the award to Cruise, saying that “his work has inspired generations to serve in our Navy and Marine Corps.”
“I admire all of the servicemen and women,” Cruise said, standing next to Del Toro, who presented him with a certificate and medal. “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. And I see that in the servicemen and women.”
Cruise cemented his reputation as an on-screen military hero as Naval fighter pilot Maverick in the 1986 smash hit Top Gun. The film reportedly led the Navy to set up recruitment tables outside theatres and a subsequent boost in military recruitment. In a statement released by the US Navy, Cruise’s efforts in the film industry have “increased public awareness and appreciation for the Navy’s highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform.”
The actor expressed gratitude for the “extraordinary acknowledgement” and also gave recognition to the behind-the-scenes work done by his colleagues to bring his films before an audience. “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,” Cruise said in a statement. “The effort was not just on my end, but the cast and crew I get to work with on all our sets. They are what really bring the work to life.”
Cruise was also celebrated for his roles in action hits Born on the Fourth of July, A Few Good Men and the Mission: Impossible series. He is currently in the UK working on his next film Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning, due for release in May 2025.
The prestigious civilian honour was previously awarded to Academy Award winners Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks for their work in the World War II film Saving Private Ryan.
