USA's Erin Jackson Reflects on Emotional Flag-Bearing Experience in Milan

Speed skater says carrying the flag for her country was a 'really special' moment.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Speed skater Erin Jackson described carrying the flag for the United States during the recent Olympics in Milan as a 'really special' and emotional experience. Jackson was chosen for the honor by a vote of her teammates, which she said made the moment even more meaningful. She noted the energy of the crowd and the feeling of support from her peers while leading the national delegation.

Why it matters

Jackson's experience as the U.S. flag bearer highlights the significance and honor of representing one's country at the Olympics. As a prominent figure in the sport, her reflections provide insight into the emotional impact of this prestigious role.

The details

Jackson said she felt appreciated by her fellow athletes, which added to the significance of the event. She also reflected on her performance in the 500-meter event, where she experienced a record-breaking start that she said impacted her rhythm during the remainder of the race. Before her success on the ice, Jackson focused primarily on her education and held aspirations outside of professional sports, initially intending to pursue a career in science.

  • Jackson was chosen as the U.S. flag bearer by a vote of her teammates.

The players

Erin Jackson

An American speed skater who was chosen to carry the U.S. flag during the recent Olympics in Milan.

Brittany Bowe

Jackson's teammate and a longtime inspiration and mentor to her.

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What they’re saying

“It's kind of counterintuitive, sometimes having the best start ever doesn't really set you up for the best race because it could mean that I was just running a bit too much, which, for me, makes a lot of speed when I should have been skating more.”

— Erin Jackson, Speed Skater (wjtv.com)

“As a skater, it's kind of a strange question for me because I didn't really dream of being where I am now. I dreamed of being more of a scholar. I wanted to be an astronaut.”

— Erin Jackson, Speed Skater (wjtv.com)

“I will say that someone who I've looked up to, even back when I was a roller skater, it's been my teammate Bowe because we're from the same small town in Florida.”

— Erin Jackson, Speed Skater (wjtv.com)

“I think it's a really special thing. It's always really heartwarming to read the messages from other kids or their parents. I hope that I can inspire more people to get involved in the sport.”

— Erin Jackson, Speed Skater (wjtv.com)

What’s next

Jackson and her teammates are currently participating in the voting process to select the flag bearer for the upcoming closing ceremony. Jackson said it is 'really cool' to be part of the process for the next person to lead the delegation.

The takeaway

Erin Jackson's experience as the U.S. flag bearer at the Olympics in Milan highlights the significance and honor of representing one's country on the world stage. Her reflections on the emotional impact of the moment and her journey to becoming a prominent figure in the sport inspire others to get involved in speed skating.