Charles C. Thompson, Sr., 51, locomotive fireman, attempted to save Robert D. Bowman, 11, from drowning, Loyall, Kentucky, August 1, 1945. While swimming in the Cumberland River, Robert called for help and drifted farther from the bank. Almost fully clothed, Thompson dived from the bank striking his knee and swam to Robert, who was 65 feet from the bank. Holding Robert, he swam 10 feet, felt his leg cramping, and was briefly submerged. He trod water with difficulty. To free his arms for swimming, he told Robert to climb onto his back. Robert did so and sat on his shoulders. Thompson struggled to keep at the surface, called for help, and became submerged except one of his hands. After they had drifted 200 feet, they were rescued by a man in a water-logged boat. Thompson was dazed and suffered from temporary exhaustion. 40533-3433
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