Richard H. Denner

I remember Richard as a childhood neighbor and friend.

I knew Richard Denner. We were in the Clifton Park Center BSA Explorer Post 28 together. Richard was a few years ahead of me at Shenendehowa and I didn't know him well. But, my memory of him is indelibly imprinted in my mind. You see, Richard was the stern man in the canoe that we both took down the upper Hudson River one dreary day in mid-April. We were set to paddle from the bridge at the Glen about 7 miles downriver through the rapids in an open aluminum canoe. A few things about the trip: 1) it was my 1st time in whitewater, 2) I couldn't swim well and 3) I was scared...to death. The crews paired up at the edge of the river. Since I was "inexperienced" I got the bow. Richard was in charge in the stern. We shoved off into the rapidly flowing water heading straight for "The Falls" which was not visible, but just around a bend to the left and only a few hundred yards away. I was transfixed, kneeling on the bottom to keep my center of gravity low and holding my paddle horizontally across the gunnels. That's when I heard Richard say from behind, "Hey, Kid! You've got one choice. Paddle or swim!" That broke my trance and we both made the trip without a swim. That was in 1961 and I was 14 years old. But, I remember his quote verbatim. It's served me well ever since--both in and out of canoes. Thank you, Richard? Rest in peace!