E. Meredith Payne saved Willard M. Purvis from drowning, Warren, Virginia, February 10, 1952. At night a motorboat in which Purvis, 37, trucker, was riding in the James River capsized in cold water six feet deep 300 feet from the bank. He rose and clung to a partly submerged tree a mile downstream from treacherous rapids in the river. In response to his calls, a large number of persons gathered at the bank; but none would venture into the water, which was eight degrees above freezing. The headlights of automobiles were turned on, but Purvis could not be observed. He became badly numbed and lost his hold on the tree. A branch snagged his shirt collar and prevented his head from submerging. His calls became progressively weaker. Payne, 39, pulpwood dealer, arrived in an automobile, learned that no boats were available in that vicinity, and drove to the bank five miles farther upstream, where his motorboat was moored. Despite poor visibility, Payne piloted the boat four miles at high speed and reached the rapids. Maneuvering from side to side with a paddle in a swift current between large rocks which projected above the surface at close intervals, Payne guided the boat 500 feet and descended the rapids. He resumed full speed and continued downstream. As he neared the position of Purvis, Payne idled the motor. He dimly sighted Purvis, who then was unconscious, and paddled to him. Payne took hold of Purvis and with difficulty dislodged him from the tree and drew him into the boat. Purvis was taken to the bank and revived. Payne was tired and extremely nervous but recovered. 42522-3786
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42522-3786