The Brave Soldiers of the 2024 Paris Olympics
The upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris has gained widespread attention for various reasons. Traditionally, media coverage has been focused on which country is excelling in medal count. However, this year, the spotlight has shifted to cover a wide range of topics, including pole vaulting, women’s boxing, and the inclusion of breakdancing as an Olympic sport.
Notably, 10 members of the U.S. Army are garnering attention for their participation in diverse sports at the Olympics, while also fulfilling their duties in serving their country and diligently training to achieve success on the international platform. These soldiers are competing in shooting, rugby, track and field, wrestling, and various other events.
Among these exceptional individuals are Staff Sgt. Rachel Tozier and Staff Sgt. Will Hinton, both representing the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit at Fort Moore, GA, vying in the Olympic Trap category. Additionally, Sgt. Sagen Maddalena and Sgt. Ivan Roe, also from the Army Marksmanship, are competing in the 50m Smallbore and 10m Air Rifle shooting events, bringing with them prior experience in international competitions.
Captain Samantha K. Sullivan, transitioning from a high school soccer standout to a Women’s Rugby Olympian, adds to the list of distinguished participants. Furthermore, Staff Sgt. Leonard E. Korir, an esteemed marathon runner, is competing in the Track and Field – Marathon category, while Spc. Kamal Bey has secured a spot on the Greco-Roman Wrestling Olympic Team.
In addition to the competitors, Master Sgt. Dennis Bowsher and Sgt. 1st Class Spenser Mango are serving as coaches for the U.S. Modern Pentathlon and Wrestling teams, respectively.
Moreover, three soldiers will represent the U.S. in the Paralympics. Sgt. 1st Class John Wayne Joss III and Staff Sgt. Kevin Nguyen will compete in the Shooting -R6 50m Rifle Prone SH1 category. Meanwhile, Sgt. 1st Class Elizabeth Marks, a world record holder in Paralympic swimming, will once again showcase her exceptional skills.
The dedication and resilience displayed by these extraordinary individuals are truly commendable. Their stories are deserving of recognition and should serve as a source of inspiration for every generation tuning in to the Olympics and Paralympics, reminding us of the true essence of these events; to unify the world and provide us with heroes to rally behind. Let us all contribute by sharing their remarkable stories and cheering them on as they compete on the global stage.
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