While wild animals like chimpanzees belong in their natural habitats — not zoos — one moment of bravery at the Detroit Zoo in 1990 is impossible to ignore.

A chimp named Jo-Jo fell into a moat after fleeing a more dominant chimp. As he struggled to stay afloat, Rick Swope, a 33-year-old truck driver visiting with his family, jumped into the enclosure to save him — despite warning signs and real dangers.

Chimpanzees are up to five times stronger than humans and Jo-Jo was in a restricted area surrounded by potentially aggressive chimps. Still, Rick didn’t hesitate.

The rescue was difficult — Rick lost his grip at one point — but ultimately, he pulled the 200-pound chimp to safety. Jo-Jo survived, albeit shaken.

“He was looking at me. I think he knew what was going on,” Rick later said.

His selfless act remains a remarkable moment of courage and compassion.