Chester, Dec 18 (UNI) Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has been honoured with the US Navy’s highest civilian accolade, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to promoting military service and awareness through his illustrious career in cinema.
The 62-year-old actor, best known for his role as pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in the 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun”, received the award on Tuesday during a ceremony at Longcross Film Studios in Chertsey, Surrey, where he is currently filming Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
The award was presented by U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, who also honoured Cruise with a certificate and medal, according to BBC.
Speaking at the event, Cruise expressed his gratitude for the recognition, “I admire all of the servicemen and women,” he said. “I know in life, something that is very true to me, is that is to lead is to serve. And I know that to my core. And I see that in the servicemen and women.”
The Navy thanked Cruise, who it said had “increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform”.
The 2022 sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick”, further reignited enthusiasm among younger audiences and was cited by the Navy as a major factor in reviving interest in naval aviation.
On Tuesday, Del Toro said: “Tom Cruise has spent nearly four decades as an unwavering supporter of the men, women and families of the navy and marine corps.”
Beyond his Top Gun legacy, Cruise has been celebrated for his roles in military-centered films like “Born on the Fourth of July” and “A Few Good Men”. The Navy highlighted how these portrayals have deepened public understanding of the sacrifices and dedication of those in uniform.
The prestigious civilian honour was previously awarded to Academy Award winners Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks for their work in the World War II movie Saving Private Ryan.
