George M. Gernerd, 18, student, saved Margaret H. Sendel, 20, from drowning, Harrity, Pennslvania, July 17, 1928. Miss Sendel lost her footing at the top of a bank of Big Creek and slid 55 feet down the bank into deep water. Gernerd, who was fully clothed and unable to see on account of darkness, began to slide head first down the bank, which was precipitous and on which were scattered stones, bushes, and saplings. He gained momentum and finally dropped straight down for 10 feet to the water. He supported Miss Sendel briefly five feet from the bank, and a little later a rope was lowered. Miss Sendel reached the top with the aid of a man and the rope. Gernerd with great effort climbed to the top of the bank, 40 minutes being necessary to reach the top. He was disabled by bruises for more than a week. 28606-2353
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28608-2353