Hubert S. Beckwith saved Edward J. Owen from drowning, Scarboro, Maine, July 16, 1941. While swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, Owen, 20, student, became distressed and drifted in a strong undercurrent to water 20 feet deep. Beckwith, 19, student, waded and then swam 420 feet to Owen, who was somewhat dazed. With Owen holding to his shoulders, Beckwith with great effort swam 10 feet toward shore. Thinking from Owen’s movements that he was about to transfer his hold, Beckwith with one arm took hold of Owen across his chest while they drifted 25 feet farther from shore. With hard exertion Beckwith then swam, making slow progress. Becoming fatigued, he called twice for help. A man, who was a good swimmer, swam to water six feet deep 70 feet from shore; but he feared to swim to Beckwith and Owen; and Beckwith with extra exertion swam a few strokes to him, having swum 390 feet. Beckwith and the other man towed Owen, who was unconscious, 15 feet farther. The end of a rope was thrown to the man, and they were pulled to water four feet deep. Owen was carried to shore and was revived. Beckwith was aided to shore, where he collapsed. He was weak and nauseated for a day. 39130-3216
39130 – 3216
39130-3216