Marshall R. Glass saved Charlene M. Penly from drowning, Tampa, Florida, November 10, 1962. Charlene, 10, and two boys launched a leaky boat in Hillsboro Bay and with their hands paddled it to 1,000 feet from shore but were unable to return. Telling Charlene to remain in the boat, the boys swam and waded to shore for help. Marshall, 16, schoolboy, and his father were alerted but were unable to see the boat because of white capped waves. Without removing any of his clothing, Marshall entered the water followed by Charlene’s father and another man. They swam to 4,000 feet from shore, where the two men said they could go no farther. Marshall removed his trousers and after tying the top and legs inflated them for the men to use for support. Later he removed his shirt and shoes. After a brief rest, Marshall swam alone 2,000 feet farther. Tired and with his legs becoming numb from the cold, he found Charlene swimming in circles in water 11 feet deep after having abandoned the boat. Marshall swam to her and, warning her not to struggle, grasped her by the hair. Holding her head above water, he towed Charlene, who appeared to be in shock, 1,500 feet toward shore and rejoined the two men. They had discarded the trousers and were very tired and cold. Beginning to suffer cramps, Marshall told the father to hold Charlene, which he did. After resting briefly, Marshall towed Charlene 500 feet and rested again. After the men together had towed Charlene 50 feet with effort, Marshall towed her 450 feet farther. Noting the approach of a motorboat, he trod water and supported Charlene until the craft arrived and took her aboard. Marshall suffered severe cramps and had to be aided into the boat. The two men held to the craft, which stalled after proceeding only a short distance. The men paddled with their hands and moved the boat to a pier. Charlene and Marshall recovered.
47109 – 4796
47109-4796