July 3, 2014

Olympic distance runner Louis Zamperini, a two-time NCAA mile champion from USC who gained international acclaim for his exploits during World War II, died on Wednesday (July 2) in Los Angeles. He was 97.

The American, USC and Olympic flags in front of USC's Heritage Hall are flying at half-staff today in honor of Zamperini's passing.

"Louis Zamperini was one of the greatest Trojans of all time, as well as a true American hero," said USC athletic director Pat Haden. "He was the embodiment of the USC motto, `Fight On.' All of us in the Trojan Family have a deep appreciation for what he did for USC and for our country, and we mourn the passing of this American legend, this national treasure."

A 3-year letterman (1938-39-40) who co-captained the 1940 Trojan squad and was a member of three NCAA championship teams, Zamperini was the NCAA champion in the mile run in 1938 and 1939. The collegiate mile record (4:08.3) that he set lasted for 15 years.