President Donald Trump applauded West Point’s decision to cancel the September 25 ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks with the Sylvanus Thayer Award. Trump called Hanks “destructive” and “woke,” criticizing the actor’s outspoken political views and portrayals of Trump supporters.
The award cancellation followed Trump’s order to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War, a symbolic move reflecting a tougher military stance. West Point’s association said the cancellation would let the academy focus on training soldiers in combat leadership.
Hanks has been a vocal supporter of veterans, contributing to campaigns and producing wartime films, but his political views have clashed with Trump’s.
