U.S. Olympic skeleton athlete and Air Force Staff Sergeant Kelly Curtis may not have achieved her individual goals in Milan Cortina, but she considers her participation a victory. Representing her country and cheering on her Team USA teammates, particularly in the women's bobsled competition, fills her with pride.
"Whenever I put on the uniform that says the USA, I'm proud to represent both my country and the U.S. Air Force," Curtis stated. "But to have it on the Olympic stage just makes it that much more special."
Curtis's patriotism stands in contrast to some U.S. Olympians who have voiced criticism of the current state of America. As a loyal member of the U.S. military, she affirms her commitment to defending her teammates' and fellow Americans' freedom of speech.
"I love the first amendment, and I love that I get to defend the country in whatever way I do on behalf of the first amendment," Curtis said. "My fellow Olympian teammates have the right to speak whatever they want, and I will defend their right to do so."
While some athletes have expressed critiques, Curtis and fellow U.S. Air Force Olympian Jasmine Jones, a competitor in bobsled, are among those celebrating their country. Curtis finished 12th in the women's skeleton event and is now focused on supporting Jones and Kaillie Humphries in their pursuit of a medal in bobsled.
Curtis hopes to see an increase in Air Force members competing for Team USA in future Winter Games, aiming to grow the program for the 2030 Olympics.