The alumni association at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point has canceled an award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks, according to reports. Hanks, 69, was set to receive the Sylvanus Thayer Award, which recognizes an “outstanding citizen.” Retired Col. Mark Bieger, a member of the association, stated the event would no longer proceed as planned and apologized for the cancellation. The decision cited the need to focus on West Point’s core mission of training future military leaders.
Bieger emphasized that the academy must prioritize its role in preparing cadets to “lead, fight, and win as officers in the world’s most lethal force.” He did not clarify whether Hanks’s award would be presented in an alternative format. A spokesperson for Hanks was unavailable for comment.
The alumni association had previously announced Hanks would receive the 2025 Sylvanus Thayer Award during ceremonies at West Point. Former Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald, who chairs the association, praised Hanks for his work portraying service members in films such as “Saving Private Ryan” and “Forrest Gump,” as well as his efforts to establish the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The cancellation comes amid broader debates over the role of public figures at military institutions. Some critics argued West Point should avoid honoring celebrities, while others highlighted Hanks’ advocacy for veterans and historical awareness. No further details about the award’s status were provided.