Zamperini's unbelievable and inspiring story of survival was a bestselling biography and will soon be on the silver screen. (Twitter/@Mashable)

Zamperini's story of survival made the University of Southern California alumni and track star a legend. His biography "Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption" by Laura Hillenbrand became a bestseller in 2010, and the film adaptation directed by Angelina Jolie is slated for release in December, according to KTLA 5.

Zamperini graduated from Torrance High School and ran in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. He was America’s top finisher in the 5000 meter run and met face-to-face with Adolf Hitler after his run. Zamperini joined the Armed Forces during World War II and survived a plane crash that landed him and his crewmates in the Pacific Ocean. They spent 47 days adrift before the Japanese Navy captured them and were imprisoned and tortured for two years.

On survival, Zamperini once told the New York Times self-discipline was crucial. He added: "[Y]ou have to have confidence in yourself and believe that no matter what you’re faced with, you can deal with it — that you just can’t give up. And then there’s the aspect of staying in shape. And humor helped a lot, even in the gravest times.”

According to a family statement released by Universal Pictures, Zamperini battled pneumonia for 40 days before his death. They said he "peacefully passed away in the presence of his entire family, leaving behind a legacy that has touched so many lives. His indomitable courage and fighting spirit were never more apparent than in these last days.”

In May, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses announced Zamperini would be the grand marshal for the 126th Rose Parade next year. A statement from the Tournament of Roses said they will "remember and honor" Zamperini's courage and grace at the event.

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