Louis Zamperini: A True American Hero

A lot of times real heroes and role models go unknown. We focus ourselves on celebrities and people who really do nothing more but their job of acting or singing; some bringing bad influences. Real heroes are the ones who put their life on the line for the people they love, the country they love. People that in no way expected their lives to take a sharp turn and getting a little taste of hell while at the same time being praised although not by many. At a young age being in trouble with the cops no one would think such a kid would end up being a true American hero. No one thought he would have lived long, which in many occasions they were right. An example of why we can never underestimate anyone. Louis Zamperini is the name to remember. Being an Olympic hero, a WWII bombardier, a prisoner of war, and a survivor of war, Zamperini is a true example of American pride, heroism, and forgiveness. Born in 1917 in New York born to Italian parents and growing up in Torrance, California, Zamperini was always in trouble running away from the cops with his quick feet. Zamperini was suggested by a police officer to do track, eventually breaking the national high school record for the mile running it at an astounding 4 minutes and 21 seconds. The record stood for 20 years! Indeed he had a gift, which of course he took to

Scarred by the torture Zamperini was a changed person. Only after attending a Billy Graham sermon did Zamperini regain consciousness and being his healing process. After being tortured for years, not many would return to forgive their torturers. Zamperini stating that “The one who forgives never brings up the past to that person face. When you forgive, it’s like it never happened. True forgiveness is complete and total.” This forgiveness and humbleness is what makes Zamperini a role model. A role model that will not only change the way you view life but the way you live