Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act Signed into Law to Celebrate 45th Anniversary of the Hockey Victory at the Winter Olympics

Congressional Gold Medals awarded to the Miracle on Ice U.S. Hockey Team, which defeated the four-time Olympic champion Soviet Union in 1980

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that the bipartisan Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act, which they cosponsor, has been signed into law, recognizing the 45th anniversary of the extraordinary victory of the U.S. Men's Hockey at the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, where they defeated the Soviet Union.

"In 1980, during a time of division, economic hardship, and global conflict, the U.S. Olympic hockey team made all Americans believe in miracles," said Senator Klobuchar. "Congress and our country have now formally recognized this legendary team, which included 12 players and head coach Herb Brooks from Minnesota, for their 'Miracle on Ice' that brought hope and unity to our nation."

"More than half of the 'Miracle on Ice' hockey team was from Minnesota, the State of Hockey, and I'm incredibly proud to see their achievements honored," said Senator Smith. "The iconic game was an upset nobody saw coming, and that win showcases American strength and resilience in the face of adversity."

In February 1980, the United States Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team defeated the Soviet Union 4-3 in the first game of the medal round of the 1980 Winter Olympic men's hockey tournament in Lake Placid, New York. Team USA, which included 12 hockey players born in Minnesota and was coached by University of Minnesota championship-winning hockey coach Herb Brooks, defied expectations by defeating the four-time Olympic champion Soviet Union team in a game referred to as the "Miracle on Ice."

At a time when the United States was struggling with rampant stagflation, high gas prices, hostages held in Iran, and increased tensions with the Soviets after their invasion of Afghanistan, the Miracle on Ice was a welcome reprieve and a critical moment for American patriotism. Following the stunning victory against the Soviets, the Americans beat Finland 4-2 to secure the gold.

The law awards three Congressional Gold Medals to members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team, one of which will be displayed at the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota.

Click here for the full text of the bill.

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