Dennis A. Long died after helping to save Carolyn M. Torma from drowning, Isle Royal National Park, Michigan, August 6, 1969. While a storm was approaching, Miss Torma, 19, and Long, 20, college student, waded into Lake Superior at separate points and allowed wind-whipped waves to roll over them. A six-foot wave knocked Miss Torma down, and current carried her into deep water. She called for help. Long swam to Miss Torma, reaching her 70 feet from shore. He attempted to tow her; but his hold made breathing difficult for her and she struggled to break away. A wave submerged them briefly. Long then tried another hold; but Miss Torma again struggled free. Wind increased and heavy rain began. Long said he felt fatigued. He told Miss Torma to swim hard when he gave her a shove. His thrust propelled her shoreward; and she managed to reach wadable water, from which she was aided to shore by another young woman. Long was carried away by the current and soon was lost from sight due to fog, rain, and darkness. His body later was recovered.
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