2008 Hero of the Year

In 2008, Reader's Digest celebrated 13 ordinary citizens who unexpectedly found themselves confronted with desperate situations--and acted. Their stories are told here. You let us know who inspires you the most by voting in our Hero of the Year poll, and here are the nominees.
Hero: Drew Nalewanski, Daniel Moreno and Brian Stanley
Previous
Previous Image
Next
Next Image
Image 6 of 10

Photopgrahed by Jason Grow

Heroes: Drew Nalewanski, Daniel Moreno and Brian Stanley
Read the full story: Students Alert Others to Hotel Fire
Vote for Daniel Moreno and Brian Stanley as Heroes of the Year

The time was after 4 a.m. and spring break partyers Daniel Moreno and Brian Stanley were drifting off to sleep in the room they shared at the Best Western Playa Suites in Acapulco, Mexico. Suddenly they heard the crash of breaking glass and jumped up to see smoke pouring from the windows of the hotel's adjoining tower. Rushing into the hallway, they shouted, "Westfield! Fire!" and banged on every door. Stanley was joined by fellow Westfield State College (Massachusetts) classmate Drew Nalewanski in the lobby, and the two charged back into the building to alert sleeping students. No one was seriously hurt.
Share Your Comments
Post a Comment
Name
Comment
Remaining Character Count:
 
As the mom of a United States Marine I could not be prouder of people like Lt Col. Gadson and my son defending my freedom. From the bottom of my heart thank you for all your sacrafices. Maria Proud Mom of a United States Marine

By mplimpton, on 12/31/2008
All of the heros truly are the definition of the word but Cody inspired me the most. Today all you hear about most teenagers are bad things, though I know there are many good kids out there.Many of the teens In my neighborhood are troublemakers and wouldn't even think about someone else, much less a small child.If more of them were like Cody we wouldn't have nearly as many problems as we do today.

By Bigchild2, on 12/03/2008
(Teenager saves boy from dogs attacking) Cody you give America hope for the future. So many teenagers get such a bad wrap you are a Hero in many ways! Thank you for stepping up and saving that boys life!

By shannonash, on 12/01/2008
See All Comments
Advertisement

drill chuck Step-by-Step Pictures and Instructions To Install a Drill Chuck
10 Delicious Mother's Day Recipes
Dark Chocolate 4 Foods to Help Boost Good Cholesterol