Although rather unknown, one man is credited with saving a billion lives; that man is Norman Borlaug.
Norman Borlaug was a biologist from Iowa who used his knowledge to save lives.
Norman researched in Mexico and set upon making a productive species of wheat. Through breeding and genetic modifications he was able to create a high yield, disease resistant, semi dwarf species of wheat which saved the world for many people. Norman Borlaug recieved many awards including the Noble Peace Prize, but still remains largely unknown.
For his humanutarian effort, I consider Borlaug a role model and a hero.
Cues of Life 