Delaware Valley Historical Aircraft Association

History

F8U-1 “Crusaders” began arriving in Navy and Marine Corps Reserve Units in 1964. VF-701 and VMF-111 at NAS Dallas, texas were the first reserve squadrons to fly the F-8. Eventually, over twenty reserve units received the F8U-1 before the type was withdrawn from service.

The F8U-1 on display at NAS Willow Grove is Bureau #143806. It was delivered to the Navy in December 1957, and its first assignment was with FASRON Eight at NAS Alameda, California. Later assignments included VF-124 and VF-211 at NAS North Island, California, VF-51 at NAS Miramar, California and VU-7 at NAS North island

#143806 finished its service days out with reserve units at NAS Dallas, texas, followed by VF-931 and VMF-511 at NAS Willow Grove. Until the early 1970’s, aircraft assigned to reserve units were technically custodied to the NAS they were assigned to, and shared by the Navy and Marine Reserve Fighter Squadrons, hence the multiple service designation, NAVY/MARINE painted on the fuselage sides.

#143806 flew a total of 2,786 hours prior to being retired and placed on permanent display at NAS Willow Grove.