Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday applauded the West Point Association of Graduates for canceling its planned award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks, calling the Hollywood star “destructive” and “woke.”
Hanks had been selected to receive the 2025 Sylvanus Thayer Award on September 25, an honor given since 1958 to Americans who embody the academy’s values of “Duty, Honor, Country.” The association abruptly scrapped the event last week, citing a desire to keep West Point focused on training officers.
“Important move!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “We don’t need destructive, WOKE recipients getting our cherished American Awards!!! Hopefully the Academy Awards, and other Fake Award Shows, will review their Standards and Practices in the name of Fairness and Justice.”
The decision has divided opinion. Supporters praised the cancellation, while critics argued that Hanks, known for films such as Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers, has long championed U.S. service members and veterans.
Hanks’ representatives, West Point, and the alumni association did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The controversy reflects Trump’s broader campaign against what he calls “woke” influences in American institutions, including the military. In recent months, West Point has curtailed diversity-related programs and clubs, while reinstating traditional symbols, amid growing political pressure from conservatives.
Hanks, who has publicly supported Democratic candidates including Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden, has also been outspoken in his criticism of Trump and his policies.
Last year’s Thayer Award recipient was former President Obama.
