Tom Cruise awarded the U.S. Navy's highest civilian honor

This week actor Tom Cruise was awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest honor the Navy can bestow on a civilian.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro presented the award, recognizing Cruise’s decades-long commitment to raising awareness and appreciation for the Navy and Marine Corps, from his iconic portrayal of Maverick in Top Gun and the sequel Top Gun: Maverick.

Secretary Del Toro said, “His work has inspired generations to serve in our Navy and Marine Corps.” Cruise’s work has been credited for a surge in Navy pilot recruitment during the late 1980s and 1990s.

Cruise said, “I’m happy I have been able to be a source of inspiration to many of the sailors who serve today or have served in the past. The effort was not just on my end, but the cast and crew I get to work with on all our sets. They are what really bring the work to life.”

Cruise had already been honored by the Navy as their 36th ever Honorary Naval Aviator. That honor was also bestowed on Hollywood and entertainment icons Jackie Cooper, Jim Nabors, Tony Orlando and Bob Hope.

Cruise earned his pilot's license in 1994. Along with private planes, Cruise can fly helicopters, fighter jets, and commercial flights. He's also an aerobatic pilot, which means he can fly planes in high-speed maneuvers. However, he was not allowed to fly an F-18 in Top Gun.


(Photo: US Navy)