• West Point cancels Tom Hanks's Sylvanus Thayer Award ceremony.
• President Trump praises the cancellation, labeling Hanks as 'woke'.
• The decision reflects a broader trend of Trump's influence over military and educational institutions.

The planned Sylvanus Thayer Award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks at West Point has been abruptly canceled, a decision confirmed by the West Point Association of Graduates. The cancellation was reportedly motivated by a desire for the academy to prioritize military readiness over ceremonial events. Hanks was set to receive the award on September 25, which is given to individuals whose achievements reflect the values of “Duty, Honor, Country,” according to The Hill and Al Jazeera.

President Donald Trump expressed his support for the cancellation via a social media post, describing it as “an important move” while criticizing Hanks for being a “woke recipient.” Trump’s comments reflect a broader agenda to align military institutions with his administration’s views on political correctness and “woke” culture. Hanks, a vocal critic of Trump, had previously received recognition for his contributions to film and veterans' advocacy, highlighting the irony in the cancellation. This sentiment was echoed in reports from The Hill and India Times.

The response from the West Point alumni association, articulated by its president, retired Army Colonel Mark Bieger, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on training the next generation of military leaders. This stance aligns with Trump's administration directives aimed at reshaping educational institutions by removing influences perceived as politically correct. The decisions have sparked discussions on how these policies will affect academic freedom and military training, as outlined by India Times and Al Jazeera.

Previously, Hanks had been celebrated for roles in significant military-themed films and his engagement in various initiatives supporting veterans. His cancellation highlights the tension between artistic recognition and political leanings, with Trump's administration pushing back against individuals from the arts community who oppose their agenda. This rift is indicative of a larger ideological battle that is manifesting in both cultural and educational spaces, as reported by The Hill and India Times.