Henry Kane McVickar saved Louis J. Vanrenen from drowning, Tuxedo Park, New York, May 4, 1962. When he became exhausted while attempting to swim 200 feet to the bank of Tuxedo Park Lake from a capsized sailboat, Louis, 10, called for help. McVickar, 49, securities analyst, undressed to his underwear and entered the cold water. As he swam diagonally toward Louis, McVickar felt himself weakening. He slackened his pace and after a total swim of 225 feet reached Louis in deep water 150 feet from the bank. McVickar instructed Louis to hold to his shoulders, which he did. As he towed Louis toward the bank, McVickar became weaker and short of wind. Noting that he was sinking lower in the water, he urged Louis to change his hold. Louis paid no heed, and McVickar continued swimming with increasing difficulty. After towing Louis 110 feet, McVickar’s distress was acute. Louis then placed his arms around the neck of McVickar, who freed himself. Louis began paddling toward the bank. McVickar swam alongside and offered encouragement as they moved to within 15 feet of the bank. McVickar then found footing and waded from the water with Louis.
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