Kenneth W. Mathews saved Robert D. Fenimore from drowning, Hollis, New Hampshire, April 7, 1963. While poling a crude raft across a pond, Robert, 11, fell into near-freezing water 10, feet deep 20 feet from the nearest bank and twice was submerged briefly. Kenneth, 14, schoolboy, ran to the pond and removed his eyeglasses, without which his vision was limited. Robert, who was gasping for air, again was pulled under by the weight of his heavy clothing. Without delaying to remove his boots or any of his other attire, Kenneth lunged into the water and swam 20 feet, experiencing difficulty breathing in the cold water. He grasped the raft and took several deep breaths as Robert again returned to the surface. Kenneth quickly swam five feet to behind Robert, who was flailing wildly and attempted to turn toward him. Securing a hold on Robert, Kenneth towed him to the raft. Kenneth held Robert, who was shaking violently, to the raft as he moved it 25 feet to the bank by kicking.
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