The role of Maverick in the Top Gun films allowed Tom Cruise to receive the highest civilian honor awarded by the US Navy.
Tom Cruise received the most important one today civil honor assigned by US Navythe Distinguished Public Service Award. The award was given to the American actor for his ‘outstanding contributions to the Navy and Marine Corps’.
The award given to Tom Cruise
The Hollywood star has been recognized for his portrayal of the military in films such as Top Gun, and the recent blockbuster sequel, Born on the Fourth of July, Code of Honor and for his work on Mission: Impossible .
The role of Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell, first played in 1986, for example, significantly increased young people’s interest in military activities and the number of young people who joined up. The same also happened on the occasion of the sequel, which also brought the new generations closer to the work of the military and the opportunities offered by the army.
Because the success of Top Gun: Maverick is (also) thanks to Tony Scott
The star’s statements
Tom Cruise received the honor in London, being busy filming the next chapter of the adventures of Agent Ethan Hunt, where the Secretary of the US Navy Carlos Del Toro arrived.
The actor, as reported by the Associated Press agency, said he was extremely proud of the recognition. Cruise then added: “I admire all men and women serving the nation. I know that in life, something I hold very true, to lead is to be of service. And I know it deep down. And I see it in military men and women“.
An official statement explained that Tom has “increased public awareness and appreciation” of highly trained personnel and the sacrifices those who wear the uniform make.
