Louie Zamperini's Life And Accomplishments

Louie Zamperini, a famous USC track star during the midst of World War II, became a B-24 Bombardier who’s plane goes down in the Pacific Ocean and not to be heard from for several years to come. Zamperini was born in Olean, New York, on January 26, 1917 then later moved to his new home in Torrance, California. He was born into an Italian-American family as the second oldest child with his brother Pete and his sisters, Virginia and Sylvia. He attended USC where he became a world renowned mile runner clocking in at 4:21.2. During the Second World War, Louie served in the United States Air Force as a B-24 Bombardier. Years after his homecoming, Louie became a firm believer in the Christian faith as he went on to share his story with the world. On July 2nd, 2014, Louie died at the age of 97 in his home in Los Angeles, California. During his lifetime, Louie Zamperini has achieved many accomplishments throughout both his athletic and military career. In his High School career, Louie’s brother, Pete got him into running. This proved to be one of Louie’s strengths as he went on to hold several records as well as earn himself a trip to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Several of his athletic achievements include; the fastest mile time by a high school student at 4:12.2 and an 8th …show more content…
Working as a bombardier in the war against Japan. During one of the men’s regular bombings of Japan, Louie’s plane plummeted into the ocean leading to much of the crew’s demise. Him and his pilot, Phil were found by the Japanese and forced into Prisoner of War (POW) camps in Japan. These conditions and through Louie’s perseverance, he was able to come home with several honors bestowed upon him. These awards consist of the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, the POW Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and many others. These medals display his bravery and his strength he kept throughout his time spent in the POW