Sarah Elizabeth Whisler, 20, file clerk, saved Ruben A. Padilla, 22, welder, from drowning, San Francisco, California, June 14, 1953. While bathing in rough surf in the Pacific Ocean, Padilla suffered severe cramp in his legs and was carried into deep water by a strong undertow. A brother of Padilla swam to him but could make no headway in attempting to tow him and returned to shore. Padilla barely could stay afloat by stroking his arms and called for help, attracting Miss Whisler, who waded from shore and swam 400 feet to him through breakers and swells three to four feet high. She obtained a hold on Padilla, who was 40 pounds heavier than she, and urged him to try to relax his legs, but be was unable to do so. Although greatly impeded by Padilla’s weight and the pull of the undertow, Miss Whisler slowly towed him to wadable water. Padilla was carried to shore by others as Miss Whisler waded from the water. Padilla nearly was exhausted, and Miss Whisler was fatigued. Both recovered. 3846-42892
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