William J. Crocker, 42, city fireman, died attempting to save Jasper P. Curle, 35, automobile mechanic, from drowning, Suffolk, Virginia, August 29, 1954. While Curle and two other men were attempting to launch a motorboat, the craft slid into the Nansemond River, drifting in a tidal current into deep water 70 feet from the opposite bank. Curle swam to the boat and took hold of it. After supporting himself briefly, he suddenly released his hold and called for help. Crocker, who was off duty, ran to the outer end of a pier, disrobed to his under drawers, and dived into the water. He swam rapidly 125 feet to Curle, who was 75 feet from the drifting motorboat. As Crocker arrived, Curle raised his arms
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