James M. Davidson, III

James M. Davidson III saved Pauline Demoskoff from drowning, Curlew, Washington, April 28, 1987. In a highway accident, the car driven by Mrs. Demoskoff, 60, entered the swollen and swiftly flowing Kettle River. Water began to fill the car, and before it sank, Mrs. Demoskoff, a nonswimmer, was forced out, then was carried downstream by the current. She called for help as she struggled to stay afloat. Although he was involved in the same accident, Davidson, 18, high school student, ran to the river bank, jumped into the cold water, and swam to Mrs. Demoskoff. Panicky, Mrs. Demoskoff submerged Davidson, but he recovered, calmed her, and obtained a hold on her. Fighting the current, Davidson swam back to the bank, towing Mrs. Demoskoff. Others assisted them from the river. Mrs. Demoskoff required hospital treatment for her injuries, from which she recovered.