Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise has received the US Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the naval force, during a ceremony at Longcross Film Studios in Surrey, England.
The 62-year-old actor was recognized for his decades-long contributions through iconic naval roles, particularly as Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell in the "Top Gun" franchise. The 1986 original film sparked a notable surge in military recruitment, while its 2022 sequel "Top Gun: Maverick" renewed interest among younger audiences.
US Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presented Cruise with the medal and certificate, praising the actor's "unwavering support of the men, women and families of the navy and marine corps" spanning nearly four decades.
"His dedicated support through the film industry increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform," Del Toro remarked during the ceremony.
Upon receiving the honor, Cruise expressed his deep appreciation, stating, "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."
The prestigious award places Cruise in distinguished company, joining previous recipients Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, who were honored for their work on "Saving Private Ryan."
The ceremony took place while Cruise was in Surrey filming "Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning," scheduled for release in May 2025.