Official announcements by the U.S. Navy or Tom Cruise's representatives

Tom Cruise Receives U.S. Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award for 'Top Gun' and Military Films

Dec 18, 2024, 12:06 AM

Tom Cruise, the 62-year-old Hollywood actor renowned for his roles in military films such as 'Top Gun', was awarded the U.S. Navy's highest civilian honor, the Distinguished Public Service Award, on Tuesday. The award, presented by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro at a ceremony held at Longcross Studios near London, recognizes Cruise's outstanding contributions to the Navy and the Marine Corps through his work in films that have increased public awareness and appreciation for the military. The Navy noted that Cruise's portrayal of military characters in movies like 'Top Gun', 'Mission: Impossible', 'Born on the Fourth of July', and 'A Few Good Men' had been instrumental in boosting recruitment and shaping a positive image of the armed forces. Cruise, upon receiving the award, stated, 'To lead is to serve,' expressing his pride and humility at the recognition.