Jase - probably your original instinct to keep quiet was the right one

but since you piped up, I totally agree. There are plenty of people in the warbird movement whom I'd consider religious nuts, but in mainstream religions. And WHO CARES - they're mostly good people and they're doing a good thing.
My own thoughts about Mr Cruise are:
1. If this rumor proves true, I hope MI:3 does well! I'll buy a ticket, at any rate.
2. I am surprised/delighted that Mr Cruise is even aware of CAF, the F-82, and by extension the warbird movement. Most celebs and many other private owners buy warbirds as toys and never engage with the historical aspect or help out the warbird movement. We warbird fanciers could all benefit not only from the money, but from the profile raising impact of someone like Mr Cruise. No matter what the tabloids or Jay Leno say about his religion, Mr Cruise is still a very respected film star in this country. Think what he could do for an airshow by appearing with his plane. Celebs like Harrison Ford and Cliff Robertson have been a big help to the EAA with their appearances at OSH and support for Young Eagles, etc.
3. Maybe Mr Cruise would enjoy being part of a community where he is just one of the guys, and all the cameras are pointed at his airplane instead of him and his wife for a change. If so, shouldn't we make him welcome?
It's just possible that Mr Cruise checks out this forum, since everybody with much awareness of the warbird scene does sooner or later. So if he really is sponsoring the '82 and if he's reading this thread, I'd say: Good on ya, mate, and welcome aboard.