Tom Cruise Receives USA Navy Award: 10 Most Coveted Awards of the US and the Rules and Laws That Govern Them

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1) Purpose of Awards: U.S. awards celebrate outstanding achievements in areas like bravery, science, arts, and public service, promoting unity and inspiring excellence.

2) Historical Evolution: From awards for military honours in the Revolutionary War, awards broadened to include major civilian recognitions like the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

3) Governance: Clear rules, overseen by Congress and federal agencies, ensure fairness and maintain the prestige of awards.

4) Impact: Awards motivate people, reinforce national identity, and promote U.S. values overseas.

5) Challenges: Transparency is key to addressing issues like political bias and favouritism.

6) Example: Tom Cruise's Navy award for Top Gun shows how awards can strengthen public awareness and support.

INTRODUCTION

Awards, whether in the arts, sciences, public service, or even national security, are vital because they honour those who’ve made exceptional contributions to society. These are more than just accolades; they act as reminders of the values a nation holds dear and symbolize appreciation. In the United States, for example, awards like the Medal of Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom highlight acts of bravery or service that inspire others and bring a sense of unity to society. To ensure fairness, there are rules and regulations—laws, really—that govern how these awards are given, especially when it comes to distinguishing between civilian and military honors. Military awards, such as the Medal of Honor, require a rigorous review process to confirm the merit of nominees. Civilian awards, on the other hand, have their own set of criteria for nominations and eligibility. This all ensures transparency and equity. Beyond the symbolism of achievement, these awards set a standard, a kind of bar for excellence, that pushes others to aspire for greatness too. The recent recognition of actor ‘Tom Cruise’ with the ‘U.S. Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award’ highlights the importance of these honours. Tom Cruise, who acted as a naval aviator in Top Gun, has improved the public awareness of the Navy and its core values. This award not only acknowledges Cruise’s impact but also shows how such recognitions can strengthen the bond between the citizens and the military. In an era where public trust is important, awards which are governed by clear guidelines ensure that they remain symbols of integrity. 

HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND EVOLUTION OF U.S. AWARDS

In the United States, awards have a rich history that reflects the country’s admiration for excellence, bravery, and service. They started as a way to honor people who made important contributions in areas like national security, science, culture, and public welfare. Over time, this tradition has grown and changed, always aiming to fairly recognize achievements.

Early Forms of Recognition

The formal origins of U.S. awards was during the Revolutionary War or The American War of Independence, where soldiers were recognized for their bravery. One of the earliest military honours was the ‘Badge of Military Merit’, established by General George Washington in the year 1782. This award, which served as a precursor to the modern ‘Purple Heart’, was created to honour the extraordinary valour and service among soldiers. The ‘Congressional Medal of Honor’, which was first awarded during the Civil War in 1863, was a huge step for the formalization of awards. This decoration is regarded as the highest military honour in the United States and is given to people who demonstrate exceptional acts of valour and bravery in combat.

Development of Civilian Awards

Civilian awards were introduced to honour contributions in science, arts, culture, and public service. In 1963, President John F. Kennedy established the ‘Presidential Medal of Freedom’, the highest civilian award in the United States. This honour is given to people who have made significant contributions to American interests through politics, culture, or humanitarian work. Similarly, the ‘Congressional Gold Medal’ has been awarded since 1776 for achievements and contributions to American history and culture. Though it was Initially reserved for military leaders, it has since been broadened to include civilians who have made impacts on society. Other civilian awards, like the ‘National Medal of Science’ and the ‘National Humanities Medal’, recognize excellence in academic fields. These awards are usually given by federal agencies like the National Science Foundation or the National Endowment for the Humanities, which oversee their nomination and selection processes. 

The Role of U.S. Congress and Agencies

The Congress plays an important role in the establishment of these awards. The creation or awarding of honours often needs legislation, reflecting a commitment to transparency and accountability. For example, awarding the Congressional Gold Medal requires approval through an act of Congress, ensuring bipartisan consensus (which means agreement from both parties) on the recipient's merit. Federal agencies also manage award programs aligned with their missions. For example, NASA oversees the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to recognize astronauts for their extraordinary service in space exploration. Likewise, the Department of Defence gives military honours like the Silver Star and Distinguished Service Medal while ensuring the strict following of the eligibility criteria. 

THE 10 MOST COVETED AWARDS

Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, created by President John F. Kennedy in 1963 through Executive Order 11085 , is the highest civilian award in the United States. It honors people who’ve made extraordinary contributions in areas like national security, world peace, public service, and cultural or social progress. It’s not tied to any specific field—politics, the arts, sciences, education, and humanitarian work can all be recognized. Some of the notable recipients over the years include Martin Luther King Jr. for his role in the Civil Rights Movement, Mother Teresa for her humanitarian work, and Neil Armstrong for being the first person to walk on the moon.. The award’s criteria are intentionally broad, giving the President significant discretion in choosing recipients. Even entertainers like Tom Hanks and athletes like Michael Jordan have been celebrated in recent years for their impact on American culture. 

The award process is governed by an Executive Order that ensures transparency and maintains its prestige. There’s no formal nomination process for the medal. The President simply consults with advisors and chooses individuals whose work fits the purpose of the award. There aren’t any strict rules about how often it’s given, either. The recipients are people who’ve truly made a lasting impact on the nation and the world.

Congressional Gold Medal

The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honours in the United States, given by Congress to individuals, groups, or institutions that have made major contributions to the country. What makes it different from most awards is that it needs legislative approval—a bill has to be introduced in Congress and then passed by at least two-thirds of both the House and the Senate. This process is meant to make sure only truly deserving recipients are honoured. The medal’s history goes all the way back to 1776, when Congress gave the first one to George Washington for his leadership during the Revolutionary War. Over time, it’s been awarded to many notable figures, like Rosa Parks for her role in the Civil Rights Movement and the Tuskegee Airmen, who were African American pilots in World War II. This award carries a lot of history. There are strict rules about making and copying the medal. It’s made by the U.S. Mint, and any duplicates can only be approved through Congress. Every Congressional Gold Medal is one-of-a-kind, designed to represent the recipient’s accomplishments. The medal stands as a symbol of the nation’s gratitude and respect for those whose extraordinary achievements and dedication inspire the country.

Distinguished Public Service Award

The Distinguished Public Service Award is the highest civilian honour presented by the United States Navy. It recognizes people who have made exceptional contributions to the Navy’s mission, reputation, or relationship with the public. Recently, actor Tom Cruise was awarded this honor by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. Cruise received the Distinguished Public Service Award for his influential role in the Top Gun films, which have significantly increased public awareness and appreciation of the Navy’s values and operations. The success of these films, especially Top Gun: Maverick, has been credited with inspiring new generations to consider military careers and enhancing the Navy’s image globally. During the award ceremony, Cruise expressed his admiration for service members, stating, “To lead is to serve.”. This award is reserved for civilians whose actions have significantly supported the Navy and Marine Corps, reflecting their commitment to national security and service. The selection process is rigorous, requiring nominations and approval at high levels within the Department of the Navy. The award includes a medal, certificate, and citation detailing the recipient’s achievements. By honouring individuals like Tom Cruise, the Navy highlights how public contributions can enhance its objectives and inspire others to recognize the importance of national defence.

Purple Heart

The Purple Heart, established by General George Washington on August 7, 1782, as the Badge of Military Merit, is a prestigious military decoration awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in action. It is one of the oldest military honours in the United States. Although it fell out of use after the Revolutionary War, it was revived in 1932 to honour those who demonstrate sacrifice and bravery during combat. The Purple Heart is also widely associated with the Second World War, as it was used extensively to honour those who were injured or killed during the war. The Purple Heart is governed by the Department of Defence under strict regulations to ensure it is awarded only to deserving individuals. It is conferred upon service members who are injured or killed as a result of enemy action, including gunfire, shrapnel, or explosions. The award also applies to those harmed during acts of terrorism or while serving as prisoners of war. In certain circumstances, even those who sustain injuries while performing duties in hostile environments are eligible. What distinguishes the Purple Heart from other military awards? It is not based on an act of valour but rather on the sacrifices made by service members. Recipients are typically nominated through official military channels. Documentation is required to verify their injuries or circumstances leading to their deaths. The medal features an image of George Washington and symbolizes courage, resilience, and selflessness. 

Presidential Citizens Medal

The Presidential Citizens Medal is the second-highest civilian honour in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public service. Established by Executive Order 11494  on November 13, 1969, by President Richard Nixon, the medal recognizes citizens who have performed deeds or services which are exemplary for their country or fellow citizens. This award honours acts of selflessness and dedication that positively impact society. Recipients include educators, community leaders, first responders, and others who go above and beyond their duties to benefit others. Muhammad Ali is a notable recipient of the award as he was a part of the Civil Rights Movement, as well as a conscientious objector for the Vietnam War. The nomination and issuing of the medal are overseen by the President of the United States. There is no formal application process. Instead, nominations are typically submitted by government officials, organizations, or individuals. These nominations are reviewed by White House staff to ensure that candidates meet the high standards of public service required for the award. Final selections are made by the President, and the medals are usually presented in a public ceremony. 

National Medal of Science

The National Medal of Science, which was established by Congress in 1959, is one of the highest honours bestowed by the United States for contributions to science and engineering. It recognizes people who have made groundbreaking discoveries or advancements across various fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, and social sciences. The award is given by the National Science Foundation (NSF), which oversees the nomination and selection process. Recipients are often people whose work has addressed critical challenges, advanced knowledge, or led to the development of new technologies that improve daily life. Notable past winners include physicist Richard Feynman for his contributions to quantum mechanics and biologist Harold Varmus for his advancements in cancer research. However, to be eligible for the medal, candidates must either be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. They are nominated by their peers, including colleagues, professional organizations, or universities, through a formal process managed by the NSF. A committee of distinguished scientists reviews the nominations and forwards recommendations to the President, who makes the final decision. By highlighting the achievements of scientists and engineers, this medal inspires future generations to pursue careers in research and discovery, contributing to advancements that shape a better world.

National Humanities Medal

The National Humanities Medal is one of the highest honours awarded in the United States for contributions to cultural and intellectual life. Established in 1997, the medal is managed by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and recognizes individuals or groups whose work enhances the public's understanding of and areas of the humanities like history, literature, and philosophy. This award celebrates contributions that promote cultural understanding and enrich society, including achievements in preserving historical heritage, advancing education, and fostering appreciation for diverse traditions and ideas. Notable recipients have included authors, historians, philosophers, and educators, such as the novelist Toni Morrison, who was honoured for her impactful storytelling, while historian David McCullough received recognition for his ability to bring history to life through his writings. Candidates for the National Humanities Medal can be nominated by the public or professional organizations. The NEH reviews these nominations and selects individuals or groups whose work aligns with the medal’s purpose of advancing knowledge and cultural appreciation. Final recommendations are forwarded to the President, who makes the ultimate decision on the recipients.

Kennedy Center Honors

The Kennedy Center Honors, established in 1978, is one of the most prestigious awards in the United States, recognizing significant contributions to the arts and entertainment. The honours celebrate the people who have made a profound impact on American culture through their work in music, theatre, dance, film, and television. Although the award is administered privately by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, it includes government participation, as honourees are celebrated in a televised event attended by the President and First Lady. This award focuses on recognizing lifelong achievements rather than a single work or performance. Honourees are selected for their significant and lasting contributions to the cultural heritage of the United States. Past recipients include icons such as Aretha Franklin for her transformative impact on music, Steven Spielberg for his groundbreaking work in film, and Mikhail Baryshnikov for his contributions to dance. The selection process begins with recommendations from the Kennedy Center’s artistic committees and national arts organizations. A panel reviews these recommendations and submits a final list to the Kennedy Center’s Board of Trustees for approval. The Honours ceremony is held annually in Washington, D.C., featuring performances and tributes that celebrate the recipients’ achievements

Congressional Space Medal of Honor

The Congressional Space Medal of Honor, is a distinguished award established by Congress in 1969. This prestigious honour is given to astronauts who have made significant advancements in space exploration or have made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of their missions. The medal is awarded for extraordinary acts of courage or service that exceed normal expectations. Recipients are chosen based on their impactful contributions to the success of U.S. space exploration, which may include pioneering missions, scientific discoveries, or acts of heroism. Although Congress authorized the medal, the nomination process is managed by NASA, with the final award presented by the sitting President. Notable recipients of this honour include Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon, and John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth. Additionally, astronauts such as Kalpana Chawla and Rick Husband were posthumously honoured (recognition given after their deaths) for their dedication and sacrifice during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. The award highlights both the risks and rewards associated with space travel and aims to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams in exploring the cosmos.

Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the United States Armed Force’s highest military decoration, established during the Civil War in 1861. It is awarded to members of the military who demonstrate extraordinary acts of valour, often at great personal risk, above and beyond the call of duty. Although commonly referred to as the "Congressional Medal of Honor," it is officially known simply as the Medal of Honor. The award is governed by stringent regulations outlined in Title 10 of the U.S. Code , which maintains its integrity and exclusivity. The nomination process involves a thorough review that begins at the unit level and progresses through various levels of command before reaching the President for final approval. Additionally, there are provisions for revoking the medal if it is awarded in error. Notable honourees include Audie Murphy, one of World War II's most decorated soldiers, and Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who saved numerous lives during battle without carrying a weapon (The movie “Hacksaw Ridge” shares his story). It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and continues to inspire future generations.

LAWS AND GOVERNANCE OF AWARDS

The entire process of creating and giving out awards in the United States is based upon laws and regulations that are meant to ensure fairness, integrity, and transparency. Awards are created by either Executive Orders or Congressional Acts, depending on their purpose, or even by specific Federal Agencies.

Role of Executive Orders

Presidents use Executive Orders to institute awards that symbolize national values. The Presidential Medal of Freedom was, for example, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963 through an Executive Order. This way, the President can award certain actions in the areas of culture, public service, or national security without awaiting a legislature. The eligibility criteria are, however, very specific in the order so that it remains objective and consistent.

Role of Congressional Acts

Congress has a very important role in creating significant awards. The Congressional Medal of Honor, created during the Civil War in 1861, is an example. On the other hand, the Congressional Gold Medal can only be bestowed through an act of Congress. The legislative process shows that these awards are granted only after much deliberation and bipartisan agreement, underlining their prestige and importance.

Federal Agencies and Oversight
Many awards are administered by federal agencies responsible for specific fields. Like, the National Science Foundation (NSF) oversees the National Medal of Science, while the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) manages the National Humanities Medal. These agencies establish criteria, review nominations, and recommend recipients.

Eligibility, Selection, and Revocation
Eligibility criteria for awards vary, depending on their purpose. Military honours like the Purple Heart require documented injuries sustained in combat, while civilian awards such as the National Medal of Science are based on extraordinary achievements in scientific fields. For most awards, nominees must meet specific qualifications, and nominations are thoroughly reviewed.
Selection processes are designed to prevent bias. Like, the Congressional Space Medal of Honor for example, requires NASA to review nominations and recommend candidates to the President. Similarly, civilian awards like the Presidential Citizens Medal are awarded based on recommendations reviewed by White House staff.
Revocation of awards is rare but possible under certain circumstances. For instance, military awards can be rescinded if it is discovered that they were granted based on false information or if the recipient engages in actions that tarnish their honour. 

Transparency and Accountability
To maintain public trust, transparency and accountability are central to the awards process. Government agencies and Congress must document and justify their decisions when granting awards. For instance, the creation of the Congressional Gold Medal for a recipient requires a detailed legislative process, which is accessible to the public.
In addition, federal agencies often involve advisory panels or independent experts to ensure impartiality. Records of nominations and deliberations are maintained, and public announcements of awardees provide clarity about why individuals or groups were chosen.

IMPACT OF AWARDS ON SOCIETY AND DIPLOMACY

Awards help shape society and diplomacy, creating a sense of unity, pride, and respect. When people or organizations are awarded for their accomplishments, it encourages others to pursue excellence and strengthens common values among nations.
For the US, on a national level, awards like the Medal of Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom symbolize bravery, innovation, and service. They shed light on the feats of ordinary citizens and military personnel, bringing communities together to celebrate acts of courage and contributions that benefit society. For example, when cultural icons or scientists are honored, it shows the country's commitment to progress in arts, sciences, and public welfare.

In the global sense, awards convey how the United States is viewed. They portray the values of justice, creativity, and resilience, which give this country a leading image in both moral and intellectual ventures. The recognition of personalities like Martin Luther King Jr. or Neil Armstrong has shown the world the United State's commitment to civil rights, exploration, and innovation.

The recent decoration of Tom Cruise with the Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award is a good example of how awards can have a very significant impact on recruitment and public relations. His portrayal of a naval aviator in the 'Top Gun' films reignited interest in Navy careers and brought attention to its values and mission.
Also, awards encourage diplomacy by rewarding international personalities in respect of their contributions toward the realization of our common goals worldwide. These gestures tend to improve relationships between countries and bring more goodwill among nations.

CHALLENGES AND CRITICISMS

Despite their importance, awards are not without challenges. One such challenge or problem is the risk of political influence. There are some who argue that civilian awards, like the Presidential Medal of Freedom, have occasionally been given based on personal relationships or political motivations rather than merit. This can undermine public trust in the awards process.

Another criticism is favouritism. When the selection criteria are unclear, some awards may seem biased or unrepresentative of a nation’s. Giving these awards should be done in such a way that the public opinion and the objective criteria should be balanced, for their credibility.
To address these issues, transparency in the nomination and selection processes is key. 

CONCLUSION

Awards play a vital role in celebrating excellence, inspiring individuals, and fostering a shared sense of pride and unity. They honour achievements in various fields, from military service to scientific discovery, from cultural contributions to acts of bravery. Governed by a robust legal framework, these awards maintain transparency and fairness, ensuring that they symbolize genuine merit. Actor Tom Cruise was recently awarded/ honoured with the Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award for his performance in ‘Top Gun’
The impact of awards extends beyond recognition; they shape societal values, strengthen national identity, and influence global perceptions of American ideals. While challenges like favouritism or political influence may arise, adherence to clear rules and accountability ensures their prestige. By honouring remarkable contributions, awards inspire future generations to strive for greatness and reaffirm the principles of courage, service, and innovation.

FAQ

1. What is the significance of awards in the United States?
Awards in the U.S. recognize exceptional contributions in fields like arts, science, public service, and national security. They honour individuals or groups whose achievements inspire others, foster national pride, and reflect shared values like courage, innovation, and service.

2. How are awards like the Medal of Honor or Presidential Medal of Freedom granted?
The Medal of Honor is awarded through a rigorous process involving military recommendations and Presidential approval, governed by Title 10 of the U.S. Code. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is granted at the discretion of the President, based on recommendations from advisors and committees.

3. Are there specific rules for revoking awards?
Yes, awards can be revoked under certain circumstances. For instance, military honours may be rescinded if found to be awarded based on false information or if the recipient commits acts that dishonour the award. These measures ensure the integrity of the awards system.

4. Do awards like the Congressional Gold Medal require public approval?
Not directly. However, the Congressional Gold Medal requires legislative approval through an act of Congress. This process includes bipartisan support and public transparency, reflecting the significance of the award.

5. What role do federal agencies play in the awards process?
Federal agencies like NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Humanities manage specific awards, including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the National Medal of Science. These agencies oversee nominations, ensure eligibility, and recommend recipients to maintain the integrity and purpose of the awards.