President Donald Trump signed into law the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act, authored by Congressman Pete Stauber (R-MN). The bipartisan legislation honors the 1980 United States Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team for their historic victory over the Soviet Union in the Winter Olympics. In attendance at the signing ceremony was Rep. Stauber and Babbitt’s own Buzz Schneider, a member of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team.
The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, recognizing individuals or groups with profound, enduring impact on American history and culture. Stauber’s bill authorizes three medals: one for the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota (in MN-08); one for the Lake Placid Olympic Center in Lake Placid, New York; and one for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
In order for a Congressional Gold Medal bill to move through Congress, the legislation must receive 290 cosponsors in the House and 67 in the Senate, of which the bill received 299 and 75 cosponsors, respectively. Stauber’s advocacy for the bill was built on personal ties to hockey and the Iron Range’s deep roots in the sport, rallying huge bipartisan support.
“As a hockey guy, it was a tremendous honor to author this bill, and I thank President Trump for recognizing this extraordinary team,” said Stauber. “The Miracle on Ice is the greatest sports victory in U.S. history. It continues to inspire our nation as it embodies the fighting spirit that helped win the Cold War. Coach Herb Brooks and his team deserve this honor, and I thank all who supported it.” “Minnesota played a pivotal role in this victory, and it’s extra special that one medal will reside in our district,” Stauber added. “Once minted, I hope Midwest visitors flock to Eveleth to see it and that all Americans celebrate this triumph.” Schneider issued the following statement: “It’s a wonderful honor to be at the White House to witness this bill becoming law. Our team’s journey was unforgettable, and moments like this remind us of its lasting impact. I’m thankful to be part of this special day, and I want to express my appreciation to Congressman Stauber for helping bring this honor forward. It means a great deal to all of us who lived that experience together,” said Schneider.
“Witnessing the signing of this bill at the White House is one of the greatest honors of my life. Our team’s legacy continues to inspire, and this recognition is a powerful reminder of what belief and unity can accomplish. It’s an honor to be here for this historic moment, and I’m grateful to Congressman Stauber for his leadership in making this recognition a reality. Our team never imagined anything like this, and we truly appreciate his dedication and support,” said Mike Eruzione, team captain.
“It’s an unbelievable privilege to be in Washington to witness this bill being signed. What we accomplished in 1980 has lived on far beyond the rink, and this recognition means more than words can express,” said Neal Broten.
On Feb. 22, 1980, the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. This game is now known as the “Miracle on Ice.” The United States team was comprised of amateur college athletes, while the Soviet team featured some of the best players ever to play the game. Prior to this game, the Soviet Union had not lost an Olympic game since 1968.
Eight years after this game, Stauber and the Lake Superior State University Division 1 hockey team won the National Championship at the same rink in Lake Placid, New York.
