John H. Kruse attempted to save Florence E. Bilyeu from drowning, Decatur, Illinois, May 10, 1914. Mrs. Bilyeu, 21, was struck by a train and knocked from a bridge into the Sangamon River midway between the banks, where the water was six feet deep. Kruse, 24, machinist’s helper, who was somewhat tired from having pitched in a baseball game, threw off his coat and entered the water at the bank. He swam about 100 feet toward Mrs. Bilyeu, who was drifting with the current. She went beneath the surface when he was five feet from her and did not come up. Kruse felt very tired and headed for the bank. He went beneath the surface 15 feet from the bank and, after swallowing considerable water, reached the bank, which was very steep. He clung to an exposed root until a boat reached him and took him on board. He was taken to a hospital and was disabled six days. 13019-1039
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13019-1039