Actor Tom Hanks will no longer be associated with the Alumni Association of the US Military Academy at West Point. This decision appears to stem from the Academy’s focus on preparing future officers for military service, distancing itself from Hanks due to his outspoken views.
Reportedly, Colonel Mark Beeger, who leads the West Point Alumni Association, communicated this decision in an email sent to faculty on Friday.
A copy of Beeger’s message has been verified by the outlet, confirming that Hanks, who is 69, will no longer receive the Silvanus Sayer Award, which recognizes “outstanding citizens.”
Beeger mentioned that the Alumni Association initially intended to forgo the Sayer Awards Ceremony, apologizing for the cancellation.
The email left open whether Hanks’ award was completely revoked or if it might be handled differently.
Beeger, a Silver Star recipient for his bravery in Iraq, added:
This decision will help the Academy concentrate on its primary mission—training cadets to lead, fight, and succeed as officers in the US Army.
President Donald Trump had previously addressed West Point cadets in early May, commenting on their potential and character.
During his visit, Trump reminisced about his previous speech in 2020, highlighting a need for greater inclusivity during Joe Biden’s presidency.
“Today is one you’ll remember well,” he said to the cadets, aiming to inspire them.
While Trump supports the institution, Hanks has been vocal in his criticism of the former president.
According to reports, Hanks recently portrayed a racist Trump supporter in a sketch on Saturday Night Live, which aired last February for the show’s 50th anniversary.
In the skit, he mocked Trump’s supporters as foolish.
Hanks expressed concern about the Trump administration’s impact in a recent interview, suggesting that it’s natural to be apprehensive in the short term.
“There’s definitely reason to worry for now, but looking long-term, the goal of our constitution is to form a more perfect union,” he remarked in a CNN interview.
