Lopez Lomong‘s incredible journey from a 6 year old kidnapped Lost Boy to his day carrying the American Flag at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Opening Ceremonies.

“I’m here to compete for my country,” Lomong told reporters when they asked questions about human rights. “The Olympics are supposed to bring people together to peacefully blend and I’m looking forward to that and stepping on the track and wearing my colors and representing my country.”

The 23 year old Lomong will compete in the 1500 meter.