U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, a two-time Wash100 awardee, presented Tom Cruise with the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award for his continued support of the military branch.
The DPS Award is the highest accolade the secretary can award to a civilian outside of the Navy. Cruise received the award for his lead role as Pete Mitchell in the critically acclaimed “Top Gun” movie franchise.
Del Toro said, “It was an honor to present Tom Cruise with a Defense Public Service award for his decades of naval advocacy through many movies. His work has inspired generations to serve in our Navy and Marine Corps.”
Tom Cruise’s Naval Advocacy
Since the debut of “Top Gun” in 1986, Cruise has spent almost 40 years advocating for the men, women and families throughout the Navy and Marine Corps. His portrayal in the movie has continued to foster public awareness and appreciation for sailors worldwide.
“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,” stated Cruise. “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.”
After the movie’s release, recruitment for Navy pilots significantly grew during the latter half of the 1990s. The Top Gun film franchise is named after the U.S. Navy’s fighter weapons school, also known as “TOPGUN,” which is located at a Naval Air Station in Nevada.
36th Honorary Naval Aviator
Tom Cruise was named the 36th honorary naval aviator for his role in “Top Gun: Maverick,” which was released in 2022. The movie allowed older fans to reminisce while introducing younger viewers to the “Top Gun” franchise and the overall opportunities the Navy provides.
Cruise received the honor alongside “Top Gun” producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who was named the 35th honorary naval aviator.
