Full Breakdown
U.S. Air Force Athletes Shine at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics
2/11/2026, 2:49:54 PM
Jasmine Jones: A Dual Role as Olympian and Airman
Jasmine Jones, a member of the U.S. Olympic bobsled team, is making her Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. As an Air Force service member and a mother, Jones expresses immense pride in representing the United States. She credits her military training for enhancing her athletic performance, stating, “Being able to represent my country... brings a different meaning and a different caliber.” Jones joined the Air Force in April 2023 after narrowly missing the qualification for the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, seeking stability and a rigorous training regimen that the military provided. She emphasized the importance of resilience learned through her military experience, which she believes translates into her bobsledding discipline.
Kelly Curtis: Breaking Barriers in Skeleton
Staff Sgt. Kelly Curtis, also representing the U.S. at the Milano Cortina Games, is a trailblazer in the sport of skeleton. As the first Black athlete to compete for Team USA in this discipline at the 2022 Olympics, Curtis is back for another chance at Olympic glory. She joined the Air Force's World Class Athlete Program in August 2020, which allows elite athletes to train while serving. Curtis, who has relocated to Aviano Air Base in Italy to be closer to competition venues, has been preparing extensively on European tracks. She ranks 16th in the world and recently achieved a second-place finish at a World Cup event, fueling her aspirations for the upcoming Games. Curtis aims to improve upon her 21st place finish at the Beijing Games, focusing on maintaining a relaxed state during her runs.
Official Statements & Responses
Both Jones and Curtis have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent their country and the Air Force. Jones remarked on the honor of being an airman and an athlete, while Curtis highlighted the privilege of wearing the Air Force uniform. Despite some Team USA athletes, such as Hunter Hess and Mikaela Shiffrin, publicly criticizing the state of the U.S., Jones has chosen to focus on her competition and has not engaged with social media discussions surrounding these criticisms.
Criticism & Opposition
While Jones and Curtis celebrate their roles as representatives of the U.S. and the Air Force, other Team USA athletes have voiced concerns about the state of the nation. This contrast in perspectives highlights a division among athletes regarding national pride and criticism during international competition.
What's Next
As the Milano Cortina Games progress, both Jones and Curtis will compete in their respective events, with Curtis participating in the women's skeleton and mixed team relay. Following the Olympics, Curtis plans to return to her duties at the 31st Communications Squadron, while Jones continues to embrace her dual identity as an athlete and airman.
These athletes exemplify the dedication and resilience of service members competing on the world stage, showcasing the intersection of military service and athletic achievement.
