Majorie E. Cotta saved John Van Ryn from drowning, Newman, California, July 3, 1939. While wading in the San Joaquin River, Van Ryn, 48, restaurant proprietor, lost his footing and drifted to water 12 feet deep 20 feet from the bank. In turn he struggled with a boy and a man, who tried to aid him. The boy swam to safety, but the man was held under the water by Van Ryn. From wadable water Mrs. Cotta, 27, waitress, swam 20 feet and took hold of Van Ryn, who scratched her arms and chest while attempting to get hold of her. The man swam away. Releasing her hold, Mrs. Cotta intentionally submerged briefly; and then she again took hold of Van Ryn, who greatly outweighed her, and swam 15 feet to trees near the bank. They worked their way to the bank. 37979-3162
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