President Trump Honors 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ U.S. Olympic Hockey Team with Congressional Gold Medals
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump hosted members of the 1980 United States men’s Olympic hockey team in the Oval Office on December 13, 2025, to honor their legendary “Miracle on Ice” victory with the awarding of Congressional Gold Medals. The ceremony marked a significant tribute to the team’s stunning upset over the Soviet Union at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics, a moment that remains etched in American sports history.
Trump signed H.R. 452, legislation that formally recognized the team’s achievement, praising the players for their extraordinary accomplishment. “This was one of the greatest moments of U.S. sports,” Trump said, surrounded by the team members who wore the same hats donned during the 1980 Olympic opening ceremony. “These are the men who gave us one of the most storied athletic wins of all time.”
The “Miracle on Ice” is widely regarded as a defining moment during the Cold War era, when a group of amateur and collegiate players defeated the heavily favored Soviet team, which had dominated international hockey for years. The victory was not only a sports upset but also a symbolic triumph for the United States on the global stage. Two days after their win against the Soviets, the team secured the gold medal by defeating Finland.
Team captain Mike Eruzione presented President Trump with a replica of the iconic hat, expressing deep gratitude. “More importantly, I don’t think words can explain how proud we are for what you’ve done for our team,” Eruzione said. Goaltender Jim Craig echoed the sentiment, thanking Trump for “the courage you show the country every single day and for making our country safe again.”
Bill Baker, another team member, reflected on the pride felt in 1980 and the renewed sense of national pride he attributes to the current administration. “My dad believed in the American hockey player. He believed in his country. He loved this team. He loved his country. I wish he was here, but it’s an honor to represent him,” Baker said.
Joining the ceremony was Dan Brooks, son of Herb Brooks, the team’s legendary coach who masterminded the upset. The presence of family members highlighted the lasting legacy of the team’s achievement.
The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by the United States Congress, recognizing individuals or groups who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture. The awarding of this medal to the 1980 hockey team underscores the enduring significance of their victory.
For more information about the Congressional Gold Medal and its recipients, visit the U.S. Congress official site. The Olympic Games and their history are detailed by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, which commemorates the team’s remarkable story. The Department of Veterans Affairs also honors athletes who have served in the military, many of whom have contributed to national pride through sports and service, as outlined on their official website. Additionally, the National Hockey League continues to celebrate the legacy of the 1980 team and its impact on the sport.
The “Miracle on Ice” remains a powerful reminder of perseverance, teamwork, and patriotism. As the nation approaches the 46th anniversary of the historic game in February 2026, this latest recognition by the federal government reaffirms the team’s place in the pantheon of American heroes.
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