Mon Sep 08 16:58:34 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

West Point cancelled an award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks after he was selected for the Sylvanus Thayer Award due to his criticism of Donald Trump. Trump praised the decision, citing Hanks as a “woke” and “destructive” recipient. Hanks, known for his WWII films and support of veterans, had expressed excitement about receiving the award. The cancellation follows a recent Trump administration directive for West Point to remove books and resources related to diversity and anti-racism.

**News Article:**

**West Point Cancels Tom Hanks Award Ceremony Amid Trump’s Criticism of “Woke” Recipients**

**WASHINGTON** – West Point has cancelled a planned award ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks, a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, prompting praise from Trump himself. Hanks was slated to receive the prestigious Sylvanus Thayer Award, given to individuals whose accomplishments reflect the U.S. national interests and ideals of the military academy.

Trump celebrated the cancellation in a social media post, stating, “Our great West Point (getting greater all the time!) has smartly cancelled the Award Ceremony for actor Tom Hanks. Important move! We don’t need destructive, WOKE recipients getting our cherished American Awards!!!”

Hanks, renowned for his roles in World War II films like “Saving Private Ryan” and his dedicated support for veterans, was initially excited about the honor. He had been quoted in a statement from the West Point Association of Graduates (WPAOG) expressing his enthusiasm for visiting the academy. The WPAOG has not confirmed whether Hanks will still receive the award itself without the accompanying ceremony.

The decision to cancel the ceremony comes after the Trump administration ordered West Point to remove books and resources focusing on topics like transgender issues, diversity, and anti-racism earlier this year, suggesting a broader effort to limit viewpoints perceived as liberal within the institution.

The cancellation has sparked controversy, with some accusing Trump of using his influence to punish critics and stifle dissent within government institutions. Supporters of Hanks have defended his right to express his views and questioned the politicization of an award typically given for contributions to national service and historical understanding.

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