President Trump plans to honor members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team at the White House during a bill-signing ceremony Fridays.
The event will recognize the team known for the “Miracle on Ice,” a historic victory over the Soviet Union at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.
The White House scheduled the team’s appearance to coincide with the signing of a yet-to-be-specified bill. Administration officials have not released the name or details of the legislation.
Composed mostly of U.S. college players, the team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union during the medal round of the XIII Olympic Winter Games. The Soviets had secured multiple Olympic gold medals and world championships leading up to 1980. The U.S. team’s 4–3 win drew significant media attention and national reaction.
The United States went on to defeat Finland to win the gold medal in men’s ice hockey. The matchup with the Soviet Union took place during the Cold War, adding political and cultural significance to the event.
Officials preparing for the White House event said invited guests include former players, coaches, staff, and selected family members. A complete list of attendees has not been released. The ceremony is expected to follow standard White House formats for bill-signing events, which typically include prepared remarks, the signing of the legislation, and a photo opportunity with attendees gathered around the president’s desk.