Top Gun is a classic blockbuster, but its 2022 sequel has been even more successful and not just in terms of box office earnings.

Tom Cruise‘s Top Gun: Maverick, which took four decades to make after the original, raked in an impressive $1.5 billion. The film marked a career high for the star as it was his largest grossing film ever. The film was not only critically acclaimed and nominated for an Oscar, but it also had a significant real-world impact, much like its predecessor.

The popularity of both films has led to a “significant increase” in recruitment numbers for the US Navy, following Cruise’s portrayal of pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell training new recruits. Some US theaters even have sign-up sheets outside.

As a result, the real-life American maritime force has awarded the Hollywood actor their highest civilian honor for his “outstanding contributions” to the service.

US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro presented Cruise with the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award at Longcross South Studios in Runnymede, Surrey.

The US Navy Secretary praised Top Gun: Maverick, noting the movie “brought nostalgia to older audiences and reinvigorated the minds of newer audience members, which effectively targeted a younger audience’s interest into the skill sets and opportunities the navy can provide.”

At the ceremony, Tom Cruise expressed his gratitude, saying: “In life, something that is very true to me is, to lead is to serve. I know that to my core and I see that in the servicemen and women. I appreciate everyone’s dedication and it’s a true honour to represent them.”

Overwhelmed with pride, the 62-year-old star also mentioned he was “proud and overwhelmed” to receive such an “extraordinary acknowledgement.”