donald Trump has renewed his criticism of actor Tom Hanks, calling him “destructive” and “WOKE” in a social media post, escalating a dispute sparked by a veterans group’s decision to rescind an award initially planned for the actor. The former president’s comments come after the American Veterans & military families Honor Foundation reversed its decision to present Hanks with its Spirit of Service Award following backlash from Trump supporters.
MSNBC columnist Michael A. Cohen noted that Trump’s remarks suggest anyone with differing views is deemed un-American, stating, “Trump is saying that anyone who holds views different from those of him and his supporters are not Americans worthy of being honored.”
hanks, a vocal critic of Trump, previously endorsed former President Joe Biden at a campaign fundraiser in 2020.He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President Barack obama in 2016.The veterans group initially highlighted Hanks’ contributions to portraying U.S. service members in films like “Forrest Gump,” “Saving Private Ryan,” and “Greyhound,” as well as his work producing the World War II miniseries “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific.” Hon. robert A. McDonald, the board chair, previously stated Hanks “has done more for the positive portrayal of the American service member… than many other Americans.”
It remains unclear whether Hanks will ultimately be denied the award.
