Edward Christenson, Jr., saved Erin Long from drowning, Oak Island, North Carolina, August 13, 2001. While in the Atlantic Ocean, Erin, 16, came to be unconscious, and he floated face down in the rough surf about 150 feet from shore. On the beach nearby, Edward, 16, high school student, was alerted to the situation. He ran into the water and swam to Erin, then worked to gain a hold of him. When Erin submerged, Edward went after him and returned him to the surface. Holding Erin with one arm, Edward swam with the other against the surf and a strong seaward current. As they neared shore, others, including a nurse, entered the water and took Erin from Edward, who by then was weakened, and removed him to the beach. The nurse revived Erin, who was then taken to the hospital for treatment. Edward was not injured, but he required medical attention a day later for related effects, and he recovered.
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