However it crashed in bad weather flying back to the United States, which claimed the life of those on board including Supreme Allied Commander in Europe at the time.

Hot Stuff became the first heavy bomber and crew, and first B-24, in the 8th Air Force to complete twenty-five missions in Europe in World War II.

After Hot Stuff completed thirty-one missions, it was selected to return to the United States on May 3, 1943, to tour the country and help sell war bonds.

Fourteen of those on board were killed, including Andrews, Brigadier general Charles H. Barth Jr. and bishop Adna Wright Leonard;[3] only the tail gunner, George Eisel, survived.

Additionally, because Hot Stuff was destroyed in the crash, the War Department chose to send the Memphis Belle home and celebrate it as the first bomber to reach 25 missions.