Justin Olsen earned a gold medal for the United States in the Winter Olympics last year. Now, as a private first class in the New York Army National Guard, he’s serving his country in another way.

Olsen, a member of the U.S. bobsled team since 2007, enlisted  Jan. 6. “I already represent my country,” he said. “Now I have an opportunity to serve and represent my country at the same time.”

Olsen will train as a human resource specialist for the Joint Force Headquarters after this season’s World Cup ends. Once he completes his individual entry training, Olsen plans to apply for the Army World Class Athlete Program, which provides outstanding soldier-athletes with support and training to compete in national and international competitions while maintaining a professional military career and promoting the Army to the world..

“I hope to be selected and, as a soldier-athlete, I hope that I can give back as much to the program as they are giving me,” Olsen said. “My plans are to continue to earn medals and make a name for my sport and the program.”

Olsen began thinking about the National Guard when his fellow USA Bobsled teammate Mike Kohn, who was then a sergeant in the Virginia Army National Guard, told him about the Army National Guard and the World Class Athlete Program. (continue reading…)

JUSTICE FOR ALL!

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2010 – President Barack Obama today announced the official end to combat operations in Iraq during a prime-time Oval Office address, declaring “a new beginning” for the Iraqi people.

“Operation Iraqi Freedom is over,” Obama said, speaking just hours after the launch of Operation New Dawn in Iraq. “The Iraqi people now have the lead responsibility for the security of their country.”

Obama offered high praise for the men and women in uniform whose service and sacrifice led to this “historic moment” in time. (continue reading…)