Congresswoman Elise Stefanik released a statement following the House of Representatives’ passage of the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Pete Stauber and co-led by Stefanik, aims to honor the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team with Congressional Gold Medals. The team’s victory over the Soviet Union during the 1980 Winter Games in Lake Placid is celebrated as an iconic moment 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 Stefanik. She emphasized the significance of the victory during the Cold War as a symbol of American perseverance and unity. Stefanik highlighted the importance of recognizing this historic achievement on its approaching 50th anniversary.
Congressman Pete Stauber reflected on the team’s impact by stating, “Coach Herb Brooks and his team of young hockey players defied all odds, proving that miracles are possible when we need them most.” Stauber expressed gratitude to his colleagues for supporting the bill, which seeks to honor these figures in American history.
Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey, expressed gratitude towards House members including Stefanik, saying, “We’re thankful to the bipartisan House members who have led this effort.” Kelleher sees the Congressional Gold Medal as a fitting honor for the remarkable team and anticipates the Senate’s approval.
The bill proposes the placement of these medals at the Lake Placid Olympic Center, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota, and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs. These locations are intended to memorialize the team’s legacy.
Moving forward, Congresswoman Stefanik plans to collaborate with her colleagues to facilitate the bill’s passage in the Senate and subsequent presidential approval.
