As countries around the world get ready for the Summer Olympics in London, some of the athletes on Team U.S.A. are familiar with representing their country – albeit in a different capacity. Sixteen servicemembers are heading to the games, continuing a long tradition of soldiers competing in the Olympics, Military Times reports.
Aside from serving their country in the Armed Forces, many of the competitors are no strangers to the Olympics, either. In fact, of the 16 warrior Olympians, 10 have competed in the games before, with two bringing home medals. It should come as no surprise, as the military is home to some of the best athletes in the world.
Among those competing for the United States is Sargent Spenser Mango, who is competing in wrestling. Mango is one of the athletes who has previously attended the games, making the trip to Beijing in 2008. According to Business Insider, he is a four-time U.S. national champion. SPC Justin Lester is also on the wrestling squad.
The long wait will soon be over for Lester, Magno and the hundreds of other American athletes. The opening ceremony for the Summer Olympics kicks off on Friday.