Star of the Month: Max Wagner from Germany

On Sunday, August 31, Max Wagner, an AYUSA student from Germany, became a local hero in his host community in Marion, Kansas.

Above: Max and Joe

While boating with his host family, Max noticed that his host mother's brother, Joe, had fallen off of the boat. Without realizing what had happened, his host father started the engine and Joe got caught in the propeller, unable to resurface.

Max bravely dove into the water and helped Joe so that he was able to breathe. He then swam under the boat, ripped Joe's shirt from the propeller and helped him to safety.

Joe is alive today thanks to Max's decisive action and is truly an inspiration and hero in the hearts of his host family.

His host mother, Sunny, comments on this amazing student: "Joe says the most beautiful sight he ever saw was Max's face appearing next to him in the water. He had held his breath for a long time, and was weary of the struggle. Because of Max, I have my brother, Joseph, alive. God bless Max."