Tom Cruise receives US Navy’s top civilian honor for 'Top Gun' and other films: 'To lead is to serve'

LONDON, UK: Tom Cruise has been awarded the US Navy's top civilian honor, the Distinguished Public Service Award, in recognition of his contributions to the military through his iconic roles in films like 'Top Gun', 'Born on the Fourth of July', 'A Few Good Men', and the 'Mission Impossible' series.

The ceremony took place in London while Cruise was working in the UK. US Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presented the actor with the medal.

Tom Cruise's role in boosting military 

The US Navy recognized Tom Cruise for his "outstanding contributions to the Navy and the Marine Corps."

Cruise expressed his gratitude for receiving the prestigious award, calling it an "extraordinary acknowledgment." The actor also shared his admiration for those who serve in the military.

"I admire all of the servicemen and women," Cruise said, according to the Associated Press.

"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," he added.

The Navy praised Cruise for increasing public awareness and appreciation of the service members and the sacrifices they make.

The actor's portrayal of Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell in the Top Gun films played a vital role in encouraging young people to enlist in the military, the Navy said, according to AP.

Impact of 'Top Gun' and other films on US military recruitment

Tom Cruise's portrayal of Maverick in the original 'Top Gun' (1986) was followed by a surge in military enlistments, as per the report, a trend that continued with the release of 'Top Gun: Maverick' in 2022.

The Navy stated that the sequel "brought nostalgia to older audiences and reinvigorated the minds of newer audience members, which effectively targeted a younger audience’s interest into the skill sets and opportunities the Navy can provide."

Cruise’s roles in 'Born on the Fourth of July' and 'A Few Good Men' were also praised.

Fans praise Tom Cruise's Navy recognition

On social media, many expressed their admiration for Tom Cruise’s recognition.

"This is a really nice honor. Very few ever get this," one Marine wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

"He deserves it," another said. "The best recruiter the US Navy ever had," added someone else.

One former Navy member wrote, "Mr Cruise did more for motivating aspiring pilots than anyone has over the last 40 years. I also appreciate his thoughtful acknowledgement of service members and all the people behind his films."

"The man is a legend," commented another. "No matter what, even with all the controversies surrounding Tom Cruise, he's always gonna be an articulate and engaging personality. Congrats to him," added one more.

Cruise will next be seen in Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning, set for release in May 2025.

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