The US Navy believes ‘Top Gun‘ contributed to’significantly increase’ recruitment in forces.
Tom Cruise, the actor who played ‘Lieutenant Pete Maverick Mitchell’ in the film Top Gun, has received an honorary title from the US Navy, marking yet another significant achievement.
Earlier on Tuesday, US military Secretary Carlos Del Toro awarded Tom with the renowned ‘Distinguished Public Service Award’, a distinction given to civilians for acts of valor and support for the military.
The accolade was given to the 62-year-old legend at Longcross Film Studios in Chertsey, Surrey.
Cruise first played the heroic figure in 1986, and he returned in 2022’s Top Gun: Maverick film.
According to the secretary, the Mission Impossible actor’s part ‘brought nostalgia to older audiences and revived the thoughts of newer audience members.’
Meanwhile, Mr Toro stressed that Tom’s participation as a young pilot studying at the United States Navy’s fighter weapons school contributed greatly to the force’s recruitment numbers.
He heaped admiration on the star of action movies: “His dedicated support to our sailors, marines and civilians through his efforts in the film industry increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform.”
On the other hand, the Edge of Tomorrow actor revealed his feelings after getting such a prestigious prize.
“I’m just very proud and overwhelmed,” he said, adding that he will continue to serve his country and make the world a better place.