The Olympics are back in a Communist-held country. Hey, it's like 1980 all over again!

Though American memories of Olympics in the '80s probably always will start with the U.S. hockey team's "Miracle on Ice" at Lake Placid, there are scores of other moments worth savoring. So while you enjoy the majesty of beach volleyball in Beijing, think back to a simpler time and take a look at these achievements. (Special thanks to SIT80s correspondent Jane for pulling this together.)

By the way, my own personal achievement? I could play the Olympic fanfare theme on my "Merlin" back in those days.

TOP 5 U.S. OLYMPIC MOMENTS OF THE 80s:

5. THE BOYCOTTS: In 1980, the United States led a boycott of the games in Moscow to protest the USSR's invasion of Afghanistan. More than 60 other countries joined the boycott. In turn, the USSR and 14 allies boycotted the 1984 games in Los Angeles, mainly out of "security concerns." (Watch 1980 opening ceremonies)

4. 1984 TRACK AND FIELD: In 1984, Carl Lewis makes the first of his four Olympic appearances and matches the 1936 performance of Jesse Owens, winning four gold medals: 100-meter, 200-meter, 4x100-meter relay and the long jump. (Watch his long jump.)

3. 1988 DIVING: In Seoul, Greg Louganis won both the platform and springboard events, even after suffering a concussion when he hit his head on the diving board. (Watch the accident)

2. 1984 MEN'S BASKETBALL: Perhaps the best amateur team in history, the gold-medal team included Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, Sam Perkins, Chris Mullin and coach Bobby Knight. (Watch medal ceremony)

1. 1984 GYMNASTICS: At the '84 games in Los Angeles, Mary Lou Retton won the gymnastics all-around competition after scoring perfect "10s" on floor exercise and vault. (Watch her final vault)

One international highlight: In Seoul, Canadian sailor Lawrence Lemieux surrenders a certain silver medal to save two Singaporean sailors who fell into the water. Though he lost the medal, he won a commendation from the International Olympic Committee for bravery and sacrifice -- surely the greatest of Olympic ideals.