RIO DE JANEIRO (Aug. 11, 2007)  - Two-time Paralympian Brad Johnson (Pompano Beach, Fla.), a member of the U.S. Parapan American Sitting Volleyball Team, has been elected by U.S. team captains to be the flag bearer for Opening Ceremonies at the 2007 Parapan American Games.

Johnson, a bronze medalist in 2004 in the sport of sailing, is looking to make his second U.S. Paralympic Team in sitting volleyball (2000). When asked about what being nominated meant to him, the well-spoken Johnson found himself at a loss for words.

"It's an absolute honor," Johnson said. "I'm completely speechless, especially when you consider the talent pool of the other athletes that were nominated. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and positive emotion."

Opening ceremonies will take place Sunday at 1 p.m. (local) at the Rio Multipurpose Arena.