Michael Bruce Nelson helped to save Terrisa M. Voepel from drowning, Charleston, Oregon, June 3, 1972. While frolicking in the Pacific Ocean, Terrisa, 12, was caught by a strong current and carried away from shore. She called for help. Three other persons had entered the water in vain to aid Terrisa when Nelson, 21, off-duty coastguardsman, arrived. The other three persons drowned; but Nelson, swimming through breakers, reached Terrisa 250 feet from shore and supported her until a boat arrived.
52816-6054Michael Bruce Nelson
Yakima, WA