William J. Hafer helped to save Regina M. Glodek and James S. Cotton from drowning, Seaside Park, New Jersey, July 30, 1973. When James, 7, was caught by a riptide in the Atlantic Ocean, Mrs. Glodek, 28, swam to him; and both were carried seaward by the strong current. Hafer, 50, aircraft maintenance manager, went to their aid and reached them in deep water 180 feet from shore. He supported Mrs. Glodek, as James held to her; but the riptide prevented any progress toward the beach. Hafer’s wife and a man arrived to give assistance; and all became fatigued due to the current. They were moved seaward until a series of large waves swept them to safety in wadable water.
53615 – 6078
53615-6078