Tom Cruise, right, receives a Navy Distinguished Public Service Award from The United States Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presents at the Longcross South Studios, in Runnymede, Surrey, England, Dec. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)
Tom Cruise received the United States Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. The ceremony took place at Longcross Studios near London, with Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presenting the award. This prestigious honor recognizes the 62-year-old actor’s nearly four decades of unwavering support for the Navy and Marine Corps.
Del Toro praised Cruise’s contributions, highlighting how his work has amplified public appreciation for the Navy. Cruise expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I admire all of the servicemen and women. To lead is to serve, and that resonates deeply with me. I see this value reflected in their sacrifices and dedication.”
Cruise’s iconic films, including Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick, were instrumental in showcasing the lives of naval aviators. These movies not only entertained audiences but also played a pivotal role in boosting military enlistment. During the 1986 release of Top Gun, the Navy even placed recruitment tables in theaters to inspire young viewers to join.
The actor’s portrayal of complex military characters in films such as Born on the Fourth of July and A Few Good Men was also acknowledged during the event. The Navy credited Cruise with increasing public awareness of the sacrifices and commitment of uniformed personnel.
This honor comes as Cruise gears up for the release of his next blockbuster, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, set to hit theaters on May 23, 2025.
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