S. Earle Atkinson saved Norman B. Smith from being struck by a locomotive, Durham, Ontario, November 27, 1970. Norman, 5, was standing on a railroad track near a crossing when a diesel locomotive approached in light rain and some fog. He did not move despite warning signals. Atkinson, 43, fruit and vegetable dealer, noted the situation and ran toward the track as the engineer applied the brakes but doubted that the locomotive could be stopped in time. After a sprint of about 75 feet, Atkinson reached Norman in the path of the oncoming engine. Without breaking stride, Atkinson hooked one arm around Norman and ran with him from the track. The locomotive narrowly missed them as it passed.
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