The 2014 Games marked the first time a U.S. Olympic team competed in Russia, as the United States and 65 other countries boycotted the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden did not attend the 2014 Winter Olympics, reportedly to protest against Russia's anti-gay laws. American nordic combined skier Todd Lodwick was the flag bearer of Team USA for the Parade of Nations during the opening ceremony. Four-time ice hockey Olympian Julie Chu was the flag bearer during the closing ceremonies.