Tom Cruise Receives Honorary Naval Aviation Certificate for Top Gun
Tom Cruise is one of those actors who is not afraid to explore his limits. Known for his determination to shoot his most extreme action scenes himself and without doubles, as he continues to do in the ongoing shooting of the new installment of the Mission Impossible saga, and while preparing what will be the first film filmed in space, the now legendary actor has received an honorary naval aviation certificate for his role as the expert pilot Maverick in Top Gun.
The intrepid Maverick has become one of the most iconic characters in pop culture to return, decades later with Cruise slipping back into the role as the lead in the late Top Gun sequel. And the United States Naval Air Forces have wanted to recognize Cruise's know-how by awarding him, and also producer Jerry Bruckheimer, the title of honorary pilots.
At a ceremony held at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, the actor was awarded the 35th Honorary Naval Aviator certificate, while the producer received the 36th certificate for the same category.
"In the history of cinema, there is no aviation film more iconic than 1986's Top Gun," the Naval Air Force said in a statement. "Its characters, dialogue and images are ingrained in the minds of an entire generation of Americans. The tape captured the hearts of millions, which has had a profound positive impact on recruiting for Naval Aviation, ”he says.
The statement continues to highlight Top Gun's ability to bring the world of aviation closer to millions of young people. "It has significantly promoted and supported Naval Aviation and put aircraft carriers and aircraft in pop culture," he highlights while praising how the film reproduces the strategies, equipment and tactics of the US Air Force.
While Bruckheimer was present at the ceremony to receive the honorary title, Cruise had to do it through a video call, since he is currently filming Mission Impossible 7 in different European enclaves.
In addition to being one of the busiest actors in Hollywood, Cruise also holds the title of Certified Pilot, and has flown all kinds of vehicles in both his movies and in real life, including the sequel to Top Gun: Maverick, which released it has been delayed until July 1, 2021 following the coronavirus pandemic.
