In memory of Hot Stuff and General Andrews
- Einar Páll Svavarsson
- Jun 3
- 5 min read
On May 3rd, 1943, a significant and tragic event unfolded in the skies above Iceland when a B-24 Liberator bomber, known as Hot Stuff, met with disaster. This formidable aircraft was part of the United States Army Air Forces and was engaged in vital operations during World War II. The crash occurred on the rugged terrain of Fagradalsfjall, a mountain located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, a site that would later gain notoriety for its volcanic activity, notably erupting in 2021. The incident involving Hot Stuff was not an isolated occurrence; it was one among a series of aircraft accidents that plagued the Icelandic landscape during the tumultuous years of World War II. Iceland, strategically positioned between North America and Europe, served as a critical base for Allied forces. As a result, the skies were often filled with military aircraft, leading to numerous accidents due to the challenging weather conditions and rugged geography. The crash of Hot Stuff stands out as particularly tragic, not only because of the loss of life but also due to the circumstances surrounding the event. All members of the crew, except for one, faced a grim fate in this catastrophic incident. The sole survivor was the tail gunner, Staff Sergeant George A. Eisel, hailing from Columbus, Ohio. His survival amidst such devastation is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of war and the resilience of the human spirit. For those interested in delving deeper into the history of this tragic crash, there is a wealth of information available. You can explore further details, including the exact location of the crash site, by visiting an Icelandic website dedicated to preserving the memory of such events, Stríðsminjar, which translates to "War Memories." This site focuses on World War II crash sites in Iceland and offers insights into the various aircraft that met untimely ends in the region, as well as the stories of those who were involved. In summary, the crash of Hot Stuff on that fateful day in May serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and the profound impact of such events on the lives of those involved. The legacy of this tragic accident continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of remembering and honoring those who served and lost their lives in the line of duty.
The story of Hot Stuff is truly remarkable, representing not only the bravery of its crew but also the broader context of the war effort during a pivotal time in history. This distinguished aircraft and its dedicated team accomplished an impressive total of 31 successful missions throughout the war, demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience in the face of adversity. Notably, they were the very first crew to complete 25 missions, a significant milestone that underscored their commitment and effectiveness in carrying out their duties. As a testament to their extraordinary achievements and to honor their contributions, Hot Stuff was selected to embark on a nationwide tour across the United States. The primary objective of this tour was to promote the sale of war bonds, a crucial financial mechanism that helped sustain the war effort by providing necessary funds for military operations. The crew's participation in this initiative served not only to raise money but also to boost morale among the American public, inspiring citizens to support the troops and contribute to the fight for freedom. However, as they were preparing to depart from England, the flight plan underwent a significant alteration when General Frank Maxwell Andrews joined the crew. General Andrews, who was born on February 3, 1884, and tragically lost his life on May 2, 1943, was a highly respected military leader and the Commander of the European Theater of Operations at that time. His presence on the flight added a layer of gravity and importance to the mission, as he was not only a figure of authority but also a key strategist in the Allied campaign. General Andrews had been entrusted with the monumental task of overseeing the planning and execution of critical strategic high-ranking meetings, particularly those concerning the impending invasion of Normandy. His leadership was pivotal in orchestrating the complex logistics and coordination necessary for such a large-scale military operation. As the commander of all Allied Forces, he played an instrumental role in uniting various factions and ensuring that their efforts were effectively aligned towards a common goal. The intersection of Hot Stuff's remarkable achievements with General Andrews' strategic responsibilities encapsulates a unique moment in history, where individual bravery and high-level military strategy converged. This not only highlights the significance of the crew's missions but also underscores the broader implications of their work in the context of the Allied Forces' efforts during World War II. The legacy of Hot Stuff and its crew, along with the influence of leaders like General Andrews, continues to resonate as a symbol of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of victory in the face of overwhelming odds.
Forgotten heroes
The crash was a major event at the time in Iceland. It was even a major blow for the Allied Forces. It was the worst crash in Iceland's history, and it took time to find the plane and the crash site. Fourteen crew members died in the crash, and one survived.
The rescue was difficult as the weather was harsh and the plane spread at the mountain slope. The days after the crash were days of mourning and sadness as the men were buried. But the war was at its peak, and Hot Stuff was replaced for the mission in the US, and General Eisenhower replaced general Andrews. And in the turmoil of events, they were all soon forgotten.
Fallen but not forgotten
In recent years Jim Lux from Texas made it his mission to restore the reputation of Hot Stuff and General Andrews. After working intensely for seven years with Icelandic brothers, Þorsteinn Marteinsson and Ólafur Marteinsson, owners and creators of the website stridsminjar.is, a monument was built and dedicated to honoring those on the B-24 when it crashed. The monument opened on May 3rd, 2018, 75 years after the accident. The monument it is located close to the intersection of road nr. 41 and road nr. 43 at Reykjanes Peninsula. The mountain can easily be seen from that point.
How to find the monument
For those who are interested in history and WWII history, it is a great place to visit and relatively easy to find. From Reykjavík, you drive to road Nr.41 the same road you drive when going to the international airport in Keflavík. But on the intersection to road nr. 43 to Grindavík, the same intersection you take when driving to the Blue Lagoon, you stop at a parking lot and walk a few steps up to the monument. From the intersection, the monument is visible on your left side if you are coming from the international airport and on your right side if you are coming from Reykjavík.
If you're planning to tour Iceland in a rental car, make sure to read this article about the type of car that would be best for your trip.
Location of the memorial board on the map of Iceland
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