Members of the 1980 U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team – celebrated across the country for their surprise win over the Soviet Union – caught a ride with Delta earlier this month en route to the U.S. Capitol and the White House, where they received one of the nation’s highest honors.
The carrier flew the former players from Minneapolis to Washington, D.C., on Dec. 12. President Donald Trump received the group in the Oval Office and signed legislation awarding the Congressional Gold Medal – the highest civilian award given by the U.S. Congress – to each member.
The men wore white cowboy hats during the ceremony, just as they did during the opening ceremony of the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, and gave one to the president.
According to CBS News, captain Mike Eruzione, goaltender Jim Craig, forward Buzz Schneider, and the family of deceased coach Herb Brooks were in attendance.
The bill recognizing the team’s achievement passed the Senate and House in April. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the “Miracle on Ice” match, which stunned the sports world and boosted national pride at a time of deep anxiety over the country’s direction.
“The Miracle on Ice is a defining moment in sports history that continues to inspire generations,” Alicia Tillman, Delta’s chief marketing officer, said in a news release. “At Delta, we’re honored to play a role in celebrating the team’s legacy as they receive the Congressional Gold Medal. Their story reflects the same perseverance and passion that fuel our commitment to Team USA and to connecting people and cultures around the world.”
The 1980 team, composed mainly of young amateur players, bested the Soviets 4-3 in the first game of the Olympic medal round. Their victory was immortalized by sportscaster Al Michael’s famous declaration at the match’s end – “Do you believe in miracles? Yes!”
The Soviet Union had not lost an Olympic hockey game since 1968.
Two days after the “Miracle on Ice,” Team USA defeated Finland and secured the gold medal.
