Today's nomination for everyday hero is a senior citizen savior who rescued his students from a crazed knife wielding man. A 75-year-old vet chess teacher James Vernon saved 16 kids in library knife attack at the library, reported ABC 7 on Oct. 19. The elderly army veteran was teaching a children's chess class to kids ages 6-13 at Morton Public Library in Illinois. Suddenly, Dustin Brown, 19, burst into the library brandishing two knives and threatening to kill people. Mr. Vernon knew he had to keep the kids and their parents safe, even if he had to risk life and limb. The brave man may have to give up that limb. In defending others, Vernon suffered damage to his hand and could lose use of it.75 y/o vet chess teacher James Vernon saved 16 kids in library knife attack | Examiner.com