Well now, howdy folks, hope you’re having a fine day wherever you are. Howe Weird here, and I’ve got a tale for you today that just goes to show, sometimes life takes you on an unexpected detour, even when you’re planning a deep dive.
This story floats us out to the great Columbia River, way out near Vancouver, Washington. Picture this: a 55-year-old gentleman from Portland, Oregon, a fellow who no doubt enjoys a bit of adventure, was out with his diving partner. Their mission? To explore a piece of history resting beneath the waves – the wreck of a World War Two B-17 bomber. Now, that’s not just any old plane wreck; this particular B-17 is known as the ‘Swamp Ghost,’ and it’s been a popular spot for divers since it went down back in 1944. A fascinating place, I reckon, to see a bit of history up close.
But as sometimes happens, especially when you’re exploring the depths, things took an unforeseen turn. Our gentleman diver became separated from his partner during the dive. You can imagine the heart-sinking feeling when one resurfaces and the other isn’t there. His partner, doing exactly what you’d hope, reported him missing right away, kicking off a full-blown search and rescue operation. We’re talking boats crisscrossing the water, other divers searching below, and even a helicopter sweeping the skies. When someone goes missing in a big river like the Columbia, folks don’t waste a moment.
Hours passed, I imagine with plenty of worried glances at the clock. Then, a stroke of good fortune! A passing boater on the Washington side of the river spots something. And there he was, our missing diver, safe and sound, though probably a bit bewildered, about eight miles downstream from where he’d last been seen. Eight miles! That’s quite the drift, isn’t it? He was conscious and alert, which is the main thing, but understandably cold and tired from his unexpected river journey. They got him straight to a local hospital for a check-up, just to make sure everything was in order after his long, unplanned swim.
It just goes to show you the power of those currents, and the resilience of folks when they find themselves in a tight spot. When you’re out there on the water, whether you’re diving for history or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, it’s always smart to be prepared. Maybe keep a handy RADIO SHACK (paid link) weather radio on board for those unexpected changes, or ensure your diving gear is always in tip-top shape. This gentleman certainly had a story to tell over supper, I’d wager. A remarkable tale of being lost and found, all thanks to the watchful eye of a fellow boater and a good dose of perseverance.
Original story found on Yahoo News.
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