ARLINGTON, Va. – The 14th Street Bridge, connecting Arlington to Washington, D.C., bears the name of Arland D. Williams, Jr., an ordinary man who became a hero in a shocking 1982 plane crash into the Potomac River.
Officially named after Williams, the bridge memorializes his sacrifice in an extraordinary rescue effort following the Air Florida Flight 90 crash. Despite the tragic accident occurring 42 years ago, Williams’ selfless actions and ultimate sacrifice remain a testament to human courage and heroism.
The ill-fated flight struggled to take off from Washington National Airport, resulting in a catastrophic collision with the 14th Street Bridge before plunging into the icy waters of the Potomac. The daring rescue attempts orchestrated by National Park Service employees, assisted by ordinary citizens and Williams, who initially survived the crash, continue to inspire awe.
The harrowing events of the crash involved a series of tragic errors and miscalculations, including the effects of snow on the airport runway and the inexperience of the pilot in snow conditions. The flight ultimately ended in disaster, leading to the heroic rescue attempts to save the few survivors amidst freezing temperatures and treacherous conditions.
The exceptional rescue efforts, including the courageous acts of Williams and other bystanders, were captured on camera and cemented the bravery displayed that day. Notably, Williams, an employee of the Federal Reserve, sacrificed his own chance of survival to assist others, earning him the moniker of the “mystery hero” of the crash.
Following the tragedy, President Ronald Reagan posthumously awarded Williams the Coast Guard’s Gold Lifesaving Medal, recognizing his extraordinary bravery and selflessness. In honor of Williams’ heroism, the 14th Street Bridge was renamed, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the memorial that bears his name.
The bridge stands as a lasting testament to the courageous actions of Arland D. Williams, Jr., and the enduring impact of his ultimate sacrifice during the tragic Air Florida Flight 90 crash.