NEW YORK, July 15, 2024 – The U.S. Army, renowned for maintaining its Soldiers in peak physical and mental condition, is now showcasing a unique dimension of its commitment to excellence. This summer, a select group of Soldier-athletes will don another uniform as they represent America on the world stage at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. In a media tour conducted in partnership with D S Simon, these exceptional individuals shared their stories, highlighting how they are serving their country in multifaceted ways as integral members of both the U.S. Army and Team USA.
From Battlefield to Olympic Field
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The journey of these Soldier-athletes epitomizes resilience and dedication. Among the group heading to Paris are Staff Sgt. William Hinton and Sgt. Sagen Maddalena, both esteemed members of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU). Their paths to the Olympics are testaments to their unwavering commitment and the Army’s robust support system.
Staff Sgt. William Hinton’s journey began in his youth, rooted in a family tradition of shooting and hunting. His early passion for sporting clays propelled him to national and international acclaim. In 2016, Hinton brought his talents to the Army, enlisting as an Infantryman. This summer, he aims to translate his skills into Olympic gold at the Paris Games.
Sgt. Sagen Maddalena is no stranger to the Olympic spotlight, as she heads to her second Olympic Games. Her childhood was marked by relentless practice sessions, driven by an ambition to compete with and conquer the world’s best in shooting sports. Recognizing her potential, leaders in the USAMU encouraged her to enlist. Since joining the Army as a Cannon Crewmember in 2019, Maddalena has received unparalleled support, enabling her to elevate her performance to an elite level.
The Legacy of Army Athletes
The legacy of U.S. Army athletes at the Olympics spans over 75 years, covering a diverse range of sports including rugby, luge, bobsled, track and field, and more. Since 1948, the Army has sent over 600 Soldier-athletes to the Summer and Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, where they have earned more than 120 medals across various disciplines. This rich history underscores the Army’s role in fostering athletic excellence alongside military service.
Balancing Dual Roles
The media tour provided a platform for Hinton and Maddalena to discuss their unique experiences balancing the rigorous demands of military life with their aspirations as elite athletes. They spoke about the extensive training, resources, and support they have received from the Army, which has been instrumental in their journey to the Olympics.
“The Army has been incredibly supportive of my training and competition schedule,” said Hinton. “The discipline and resilience I’ve developed as a Soldier have directly contributed to my success in shooting sports.”
Maddalena echoed these sentiments, highlighting the synergy between her roles as a Soldier and an athlete. “The values instilled in me by the Army—integrity, discipline, and perseverance—are the same ones that drive my performance on the range,” she said. “The support from my fellow Soldiers and the Army’s leadership has been invaluable in my pursuit of Olympic success.”
Aiming for Gold
As the 2024 Summer Olympics approach, the U.S. Army’s Soldier-athletes are not just aiming for medals; they are showcasing the extraordinary potential that comes from combining military discipline with athletic ambition. Their participation highlights the multifaceted nature of service, where excellence on the battlefield translates to excellence in sports.
The stories of Hinton and Maddalena, along with their fellow Soldier-athletes, serve as an inspiration to both the military and civilian communities. Their achievements are a powerful reminder of the diverse ways in which the U.S. Army contributes to national pride and global representation.