Tip-of-the-Spear – Part XXV: Flying the Supersonic F-8 Crusader. The F-8 Crusader set a national speed record and was awarded the Thompson Trophy in 1957. The U.S. Navy flew the F-8 Crusader for 30 years, as well as the French Navy and the Philippine Air Force. Captain Smith discusses what it was like flying the incredible F-8 Crusader – also called “Gator”.