West Point has called off a ceremony that was set to honor actor Tom Hanks, sparking praise from President Donald Trump, who applauded the move as a rejection of what he calls "woke" influences, as the Daily Mail reports.

The U.S. Military Academy’s choice to cancel the award ceremony reflected ongoing debates over cultural influence in the military and was welcomed by Trump, who has consistently criticized diversity initiatives and symbolic changes he views as politically motivated.

Hanks had been selected by the West Point Association of Graduates to receive the Sylvanus Thayer Award, an honor recognizing individuals who demonstrate ideals tied to the academy’s motto of "Duty, Honor, Country." The announcement was made in June, drawing attention to his long record of films and projects highlighting military history.

West Point shifts focus

The award event, however, was canceled this weekend. In a message circulated by retired Army Col. Mark Bieger, the academy emphasized its priority to concentrate on preparing future officers, though the statement did not clarify whether Hanks’ award was officially revoked.

No new date for the ceremony was scheduled, and the cancellation left questions about how the institution intends to handle future recipients of the distinguished award. Traditionally, the honor is presented to figures who have supported the military through service, advocacy, or cultural contributions.

The Sylvanus Thayer Award has a storied history and is considered one of the most significant recognitions conferred by West Point. Past honorees have included political leaders, military commanders, and figures from the private sector who symbolize the academy’s values.

Trump voices support for decision

Trump, who has frequently addressed cultural issues surrounding the military, responded quickly to the news. He wrote that West Point had "smartly cancelled" the ceremony, calling it an "important move" that protects the reputation of American awards.

In another statement, he said, "We don't need destructive, WOKE recipients getting our cherished American Awards!!!" His reaction underscored his longstanding position that cultural recognition within the military must align with traditional values rather than contemporary social debates.

Trump also pointed to the broader entertainment industry, remarking that he hoped groups like the Academy Awards would reconsider their own standards "in the name of Fairness and Justice." These comments aligned with his earlier critiques of what he describes as politicization in cultural institutions.

Context of White House stance

During his administration, Trump has taken steps to reverse or block diversity initiatives within the armed forces. He has also opposed renaming military bases that honored Confederate leaders.

One symbolic decision involved his order to change the name of the Defense Department to the Department of War, a rebranding he said removed what he considered "wokey" influences from the language of the institution. Critics argued the move was largely rhetorical but emblematic of his larger agenda.

The decision regarding Hanks’ award is seen by some observers as consistent with this approach, reflecting an effort to maintain a particular vision of military tradition and values in public perception.

Future plans unclear

West Point has not confirmed whether Hanks will be considered for recognition at a later time. Without clarification, the academy’s decision leaves unresolved how it will balance public figures’ cultural impact with its own institutional goals.

Hanks, who has portrayed military characters in films such as Saving Private Ryan and produced series such as Band of Brothers, has often been praised for his attention to historical accuracy and respect for veterans. His recognition had been anticipated as a natural extension of his work.

For now, however, the decision underscores the challenges faced by military institutions as they navigate cultural and political expectations. The academy’s stated intent to focus on officer training suggests an inward turn, prioritizing its mission over high-profile ceremonies.