July 15, 1986, Lorraine Kimel
In the summer of 1986 Top Gun mania was sweeping the nation. Top Gun school was at NAS Miramar (now MCAS Miramar) in San Diego. The film was released in May. The school received 80 calls from people expressing interest in the program—in June, 170 calls went through. An instructor likely had to disappoint many by letting them know they had to get good grades and go to college before going through the training process. No doubt the film did inspire many to take up aviation. And the new film will likely do the same for a new generation.

Navy Pilots wanted in San Diego 1986:    • Navy Pilots Wanted in San Diego 1986