[Student Reporters] American War Hero Visits Beverly Hills High

Sally Sung Min Choi/10th grade, Beverly Hills High School

BHHS's Hero Project starring the American war hero veteran Louis Zamperini whose extraordinary life experiences were chronicled by the #1 New York Times Bestseller: Unbroken was an immense success. Louis Zamperini's biography from being a promising Olympic athlete to surviving a Japanese POW camp captivated the hearts of Americans as well as many of Beverly Hills students and parents.

The Hero Project organized by Sophomore English honors teacher Julie Goler inspired many Beverly students to read Unbroken. For two weeks before the assembly Beverly students experienced an Unbroken fever where the majority of the students were reading the book even though it was an optional assignment. Many of the students' reviews echoed the praises made by respected publications such as Newsweek Los Angeles Times New York Times and the Washington Post.

Leena Danpour (Beverly Hills 10th) voiced her astonishment with the book "I never imagined a biography could be so appealing. It captured my attention and I couldn't let it go until I finished it".

The assembly started with a documentary clip of Louis Zamperini's life as a 1936 U.S. Olympic runner in long distance and his enlistment in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. During the war his plane crashed and he had to survive with 3 men on a raft for 47 days with only a pint of water. After the brutal fight for survival he was captured by the Japanese as a prisoner of war where he was savagely abused and starved.

Many of the students were thrilled to meet the American hero and Louis Zamperini responded with humorous jokes and inspirational advice. It was amazing to see Mr. Zamperini's good health and active personality. During the Q&A session Louis emphasized the importance of love and forgiveness.

After the assembly some of the students were allowed to bring their copies of books to get them signed by Louis Zamperini. The assembly ended with a standing ovation from all of the audience. It is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all who were present.