Tom Cruise has been awarded the US Navy’s highest civilian honor for “enhancing the branch’s recruitment of pilots” through his portrayal in Top Gun.
The film icon, who portrayed Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in the acclaimed movie, received the Distinguished Public Service Award – which is bestowed for acts of valor or support – during a ceremony at Longcross Film Studios in Chertsey, Surrey.
US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro stated that the original action film, which follows a young naval aviator training at the force’s fighter weapons school, has “significantly boosted” recruitment figures since its debut in 1986.
Cruise, a licensed aircraft pilot known for executing his own stunts, reprised his role in the long-awaited sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, which premiered in 2022.
Top Gun: Maverick revived the character for audiences after nearly 40 years. Pic: Paramount Pictures
The sequel “elicited nostalgia from older viewers and refreshed the perspectives of newer audience members,” remarked Mr. Del Toro.
The US Navy Secretary, who stopped at the studios on his way to meet US forces in Bahrain, presented the award to Cruise for his “exceptional and extensive contributions made to the Department of the Navy from 1986 to 2023.”
Addressing an audience of Hollywood professionals and US Navy representatives, he proclaimed: “Tom Cruise has devoted nearly four decades as a steadfast advocate for the men, women, and families of the Navy and Marine Corps.”
“His unwavering support for our sailors, marines, and civilians through his endeavors in the film industry has raised public awareness and appreciation for our highly skilled personnel and the sacrifices they endure while serving.”
‘Proud and overwhelmed’
Tom Cruise accepted the Distinguished Public Service Award from US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro
Donning a dark suit and a light blue tie, Cruise expressed after accepting the award: “In life, I genuinely believe that – to lead is to serve.”
“This resonates deeply within me, and I witness this commitment in the servicemen and women. I value each person’s commitment, and it is truly a privilege to represent them.”
He further added: “I am just immensely proud and deeply moved.”
Cruise remarked that he would “continue serving the nation to enhance this world.”
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Top Gun was an immense box office triumph directed by the late Tony Scott, sibling to Sir Ridley Scott, also featuring Val Kilmer, Kelly McGillis, and Meg Ryan. The sequel also performed exceedingly well, achieving the largest opening weekend for a Tom Cruise film.
Among those in attendance at the presentation for Cruise were producer and director Christopher McQuarrie, who worked with the star on the latest Top Gun film as well as four installments of the Mission Impossible franchise.
The actor’s sister, Cass Capazorio, and Chris Diaz, chief of staff to the US Navy Secretary, were also present.
