Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik issued the following statement today after the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act passed the House of Representatives. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) and coled by Stefanik, will award Congressional Gold Medals to the members of the historic 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team in recognition of their remarkable achievement at the 1980 Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York. The U.S. team’s victory over the Soviet Union’s hockey team in what is known as the "Miracle on Ice" remains one of the most memorable moments in American sports history.
“It is an incredible honor to represent Lake Placid, where the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team showed our nation what belief in miracles truly means,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “The American defeat of the Soviet Union during the Cold War was a triumph of perseverance, unity, and spirit, not only for the athletes on the ice but for all Americans. As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of this legendary victory, I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure that their extraordinary achievement is properly recognized. This legislation will ensure that future generations will never forget the legacy of the 'Miracle on Ice.'”
“Coach Herb Brooks and his team of young hockey players defied all odds, proving that miracles are possible when we need them most,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “At a time when our nation was in desperate need of hope, they united us in belief and patriotism. Minnesotans played a vital role in this unforgettable victory, and it fills me with immense pride to have helped pushed this legislation through the House. Today, we are one step closer to honoring these American hockey heroes, and I am truly grateful to my colleagues who joined me in supporting this bill"
“It’s an exciting day,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “We’re thankful to the bipartisan House members who have led this effort, including Rep. Stefanik. The Congressional Gold Medal is a very fitting and well-deserved honor for our 1980 Olympic Team and we look forward to the Senate passing its version of the bill in the very near future.”
The Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act designates three Congressional Gold Medals to be awarded to the members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team. These medals will be placed in three prominent locations: the Lake Placid Olympic Center in Lake Placid, NY; the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, MN; and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, CO. These sites will serve as enduring symbols of the team’s legacy and the profound impact their victory had on the nation.
The passage of this legislation brings the team one step closer to receiving the Congressional Gold Medal they rightfully deserve. Congresswoman Stefanik will continue working with her colleagues to ensure its swift passage in the Senate and its eventual signing by the President.
More on the legislation here.
