Walter J. Monaghan, 60, retired letter-carrier, saved Ellen J. Connolly, 68, from drowning, Manomet, Massachusetts, August 24, 1955. While bathing in the Atlantic Ocean, Mrs. Connolly was caught in a strong undertow and carried 100 feet from shore in an area of large projecting rocks. She repeatedly was submerged by waves three to five feet high, swallowed water, and lost consciousness. An incoming wave carried Mrs. Connolly to within reach of her daughter, who took hold of her but could make no progress shoreward. Monaghan, who had restricted use of one arm, ran 800 feet, descended a steep 65-foot bluff, and waded fully clothed into the water. Progressing 100 feet through rough, whitecapped, surf, he reached Mrs. Connolly and her daughter, who was attempting to hold her mother’s head above water. Monaghan got hold of Mrs. Connolly, who was 45 pounds heavier than he; and the daughter returned to shore. Monaghan supported Mrs. Connolly for almost 10 minutes as waves repeatedly broke over them, carrying them close to shore and as far as 140 feet from it. Finally gaining footing 30 feet from shore, Monaghan removed Mrs. Connolly from the water with assistance from another man. Mrs. Connolly was revived. Monaghan was tired, and his back and ribs were strained. He and Mrs. Connolly recovered. 43600-4029
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