Ray E. Cox, 20, machine operator, died attempting to help save Dorwin C. Whitley, 36, credit manager, from drowning, Rockford, Tennessee, March 18, 1956. When his boat capsized in Little River, Whitley held to the boat as it was carried by the strong back current against the steep slope of a concrete dam over which the water dropped seven feet. In turbulent water 20 feet deep 135 feet from the bank Whitley clung to the boat, which remained against the dam, and called for help. Ray and his cousin, Henry H. Cox, who were 250 feet away in a 14-foot boat with an outboard motor, piloted their boat into the turbulent water, which extended 75 feet from the dam, and proceeded to within 15 feet of Whitley. Their boat then was drawn rapidly against the dam, where it capsized and struck the other craft. Ray, Henry, and Whitley were submerged; and the boats also were drawn beneath the surface. Shortly thereafter three pairs of feet appeared briefly above the water at points generally 50 feet from the dam. Others who had been attracted found Whitley 25 minutes later a short distance below the dam. He could not be revived. Two days later the bodies of Ray and Henry were recovered 600 feet apart farther downstream. 43953-4101
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