On July 6, 2014, Louis Zamperini passed away at the age of 97. He was an Olympic athlete and World War II veteran. Born in 1917 in Olean, New York, Zamperini had a troubled youth until he discovered his passion for running. His athletic abilities enabled him to qualify for the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games and shortly after he set the American record in the 5000 meter race. During World War II, he served as a bombardier in the Army Air Corps. In 1943, his plane malfunctioned and crashed into the Pacific Ocean, where he and two surviving crewmates spent two months adrift on a raft. They were eventually captured by the Japanese navy and taken as prisoners of war. Zamperini was incarcerated for two years and during this time he endured torture and depravation at the hands of his Japanese captors. Despite his ordeal, he managed to survive and return home after the war. After being reunited with his family and friends, he dedicated himself to promoting peace and intercultural understanding. Throughout his life, Zamperini experienced many successes, hospitality, and tragedy. He will be remembered as a dedicated athlete, courageous soldier, and inspiring humanitarian.