D. Michael Russell saved Ruby McRorie from drowning, Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, July 18, 1970. Mrs. McRorie, 40, a non-swimmer, went to the aid of her niece, who could not swim and had been caught by a rip current while frolicking in wadable water in the Atlantic Ocean. Mrs. McRorie also was caught by the current; and she called for help as she was carried seaward. Russell, 29, assistant traffic manager, swam to Mrs. McRorie, reaching her 150 feet from shore in water 25 feet deep. Mrs. McRorie, who outweighed Russell, took hold of his bathing trunks. Russell made slow progress in towing her against the current but succeeded in moving her 50 feet toward shore. He then changed course and towed Mrs. McRorie to safety at a nearby breakwater. The niece drowned.
52011 – 5899
52011-5899