Russell Edward Madison died after helping to save Phyllis J. Black from drowning, Jacksonville, Florida, January 1, 1972. Phyllis, 9, a non-swimmer fell into Nassau Sound and, thrashing about, was carried to 10 feet from the bank. When her plight was noticed by her stepfather, he saw that Madison, 23, machinist, was behind her and seemingly supporting her in an area of erratic currents. The stepfather and another man entered the water. Madison thrust Phyllis to her stepfather who, with the other man, took her to the bank. Still 10 feet from the bank, Madison then went under briefly. A human chain was formed; but Madison went under again and drowned. His body later was recovered.
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