William James Wiggs, 16, schoolboy, saved an unidentified man, about 30, from drowning, Carolina Beach, North Carolina, August 10, 1945. While swimming in rough water in the Atlantic Ocean, an unidentified man called for help. Carrying an inflated tiretube, William waded to two men, who were the man’s companions, and offered the tube; but neither would take it to him. William then swam 370 feet to water 15 feet deep within 10 feet of the man. Fearing the man might grasp him if he swam closer, he pushed the tube to him and both grasped it. Quartering a fairly strong undercurrent, he swam toward shore. Waves four to five feet high broke over them, and they were buffeted by breakers. William towed the man to within 10 feet of shore. Others then aided the man to shore, where he collapsed but recovered. William was winded and tired. 40843-3486
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