ND North News

The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act, a bill designed to honor the 1980 Olympic Men’s Hockey Team for their victory over the Soviet Union during the Winter Olympics. The team, composed of amateur collegiate players including Dave Christian from the University of North Dakota, defeated the four-time reigning champions in a match that became known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

This year marks 45 years since the event took place at Lake Placid. To commemorate this milestone, Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) introduced legislation to award three Congressional Gold Medals. These medals will be displayed at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in Minnesota, and the Lake Placid Olympic Center in New York. The House of Representatives had already passed a companion measure earlier this year.

“The Miracle on Ice victory is one of those events that many, many people will never forget,” said Senator Cramer. “In fact, many people I talk to will never forget where they were when it happened. It’s just one of those iconic things of history that’s a celebration of American excellence. At a time when we really needed something to bring us together, the 1980 Men’s Hockey team pulled off the win of the century at the time and it's an honor to recognize this achievement with this Congressional Gold Medal. I look forward to when it finally gets signed and we have the ceremony in the rotunda of the United States Capitol and probably one at the White House as well.”

Senator Schumer commented: “What happened on the ice in Lake Placid in 1980 showed the world the power of America’s fighting spirit,” he said. “Against all odds, the 1980 Winter Olympic U.S. Men’s Ice Hockey Team prevailed over the vaunted Soviet Red Army juggernaut and went on to be Olympic Gold Medal champions. They showed grit, determination, and pride for their country that helped propel them to victory when no one thought it was possible. These 20 amateur athletes sparked pride and patriotism across the nation that has inspired generations of Americans since. That’s why I’m proud the Senate has just passed our bipartisan legislation to award Congressional Gold Medals commemorating one of the greatest sports moments in American history. Great moments are born from great challenge, and the Congressional Gold Medal will ensure this amazing story’s legacy continues on for generations to come.”

Congressman Pete Stauber (R-MN-08), who led efforts in introducing a similar measure in the House, stated: “Forty-five years ago, our nation witnessed the greatest sports moment in American history when a team of young hockey players defeated the dominant Soviet Union team at the Lake Placid Olympic Games and made us all believe in miracles once again,” he said. “Minnesotans played an integral role in achieving this historic victory, which is why I have been proud to lead this effort in the House, and an ecstatic to see it pass the Senate today. These American hockey heroes deserve to be honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, and we are now one step closer to seeing that happen.”

A representative statement from supporters added: “What an amazing day,” they said. “We’re thankful to Senators Cramer and Schumer for their leadership in getting the bill passed in the upper chamber and our gratitude goes out to all members in Congress who supported this legislation. Through its historical run to gold medal, 1980 Olympic Hockey Team helped provide our country with inspiration it truly needed at a difficult time in our nation’s history. The Congressional Gold Medal is a most fitting honor for this remarkable group and we look forward to President signing bill.”

The National Hockey League also issued congratulations: “The Miracle on Ice was more than victory on ice—it was triumph of courage, belief, teamwork against all odds," they stated." The 1980 U.S.Olympic Hockey Team achieved one greatest victories sports history inspired generations dream big never stop believing.NHL congratulates Miracle Ice team bill passage grateful support members U.S.House Representatives Senate.”

The legislation received support from more than 70 members of Congress representing both parties.