Tom Cruise receives the US Navy’s highest civilian award

New Delhi:

Hollywood actor Tom Cruise was honored with the Department of Navy Distinguished Public Service (DPS) Award on Tuesday Top Gun The actor’s lasting contribution to the U.S. Navy through his legendary film roles.

The DPS Award, the highest honor the Navy can bestow on a civilian outside the Department of the Navy, was presented to Mr. Cruise by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. In his remarks, Mr. Del Toro said, “It was an honor to present Tom Cruise with a Defense Service Award for his decades of commitment to the Navy in many films.” His work has inspired generations to serve in our Navy and Marine Corps serve.”

During the ceremony, Mr. Cruise gave an emotional speech reflecting on the importance of leadership and service. “I know something in life that I care deeply about,” he shared. “Leading means serving. And I know that to the core.”

Tom Cruise expressed his gratitude for the “extraordinary recognition” and also praised the servicemen and women around him, highlighting their sacrifice and dedication. “It is an honor to be among you,” he added, the BBC reported.

Mr. Cruise, known for his role as a Marine fighter pilot in the 1986 classic Top Gun and its hugely successful sequel in 2022 Top Gun: Maverickhas contributed significantly to increasing public awareness and appreciation of the Navy’s highly skilled personnel. His depiction of military figures, particularly in Top Gunsparked a surge in Marine pilot recruitment in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Minister Del Toro said, “His work has significantly increased public awareness and appreciation for Navy personnel and the sacrifices they make in uniform.”

“I am pleased that I was able to be a source of inspiration for many of the Sailors who are serving today or have served in the past,” Mr. Cruise said in a statement, according to CNN. He added that the success of his films is not just an achievement but a collective effort of the entire cast and crew who brought the stories to life.

Mr. Cruise’s connection to the Navy goes beyond the screen. In 2020, he was named the U.S. Navy’s 36th Honorary Naval Aviator, a prestigious title awarded for his advocacy and commitment to the Navy’s mission. The effects of Top Gun and its sequel Top Gun: Maverickwhich grossed over $1 billion worldwide, renewed interest in the Navy and its soldiers, particularly among younger viewers.