Blimp pilot gives his life to save passengers

The odor of fuel and a loud whirring noise, and Michael Nerandzic knew instantly that his airship was only moments away from disaster. What the blimp pilot did in those few moments earned him the Kiwanis International Foundation's Robert P. Connelly Medal for Heroism.

Nerandzic, from Balgownie, Australia, was flying three journalist from a music festival in Germany, when he made the heroic decision that would save the passengers but end his life. Realizing the ship had caught fire during a descent over an airfield in Reichelsheim, Germany, the pilot hovered near the ground and told the passengers to jump from the gondola.

As they did, the ship shot up into the air and exploded, killing Nerandzic.

He was nominated for the medal by the Kiwanis Club of Glenelg, South Australia.

The foundation medal honors individuals who, like Nerandzic, risk physical harm or death to save another person.

Nominate a hero for the Connelly Medal of Heroism.