Top Gun's Real Military History

Top Gun is a visually stunning blockbuster picture that was released in May 1986. The film tells the fictional story of Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, a US Navy pilot, and his quest to excel at the TOP GUN program for elite fighter pilots.Top Gun, like all fictitious films, reflects the sociopolitical climate of the day. The film was released during the pinnacle of America's hyper-patriotism. In November 1984, President Ronald Reagan was re-elected while losing only one state to Democratic rival Walter Mondale. It was the most lopsided election campaign in nearly 50 years, with Mondale winning only one state.