West Point Cancels Tom Hanks Award Amid Trump Department Renaming

President Donald Trump has expressed support for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point's decision to cancel an award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks, coinciding with his executive order to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The West Point Association of Graduates, led by retired Army Colonel Mark Bieger, stated the cancellation allows the Academy to focus on its mission of preparing cadets to lead, fight, and win. Trump framed the renaming as a move away from 'woke' politics toward a more victory-focused military stance, emphasizing past U.S. war successes. While Hanks, a longtime veterans advocate and actor known for military films, was slated to receive the prestigious Sylvanus Thayer Award, the ceremony's cancellation raises uncertainty about the award's future presentation. West Point's board chairman praised Hanks' contributions to the positive portrayal of the military and veterans, underscoring the significance of the award. The decision and Trump's comments have highlighted ongoing cultural clashes surrounding military symbolism and political perspectives.