President Donald Trump announced during his State of the Union address on Tuesday that he will present Connor Hellebuyck, goaltender for the Olympic gold medal-winning U.S. Men’s hockey team, with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, shared with the Congressional Gold Medal. It was established in 1945 by President Harry S. Truman and later renamed by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Since its inception, it has been awarded 674 times, with approximately 43 recipients being athletes.
Trump revealed plans to also honor Charlie Kirk, Rudy Giuliani, and Ben Carson with the medal. He made the announcement regarding Hellebuyck after members of the U.S. Men’s hockey team joined him in the Capitol during his address.
The announcement followed the U.S. Men’s hockey team’s gold medal win at the Winter Olympics in Italy, where they defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime. This marked the first men’s hockey gold for the U.S. Since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice.”
Prior to the State of the Union address, the team met with President Trump at the White House. During the address, Trump stated the team had unanimously agreed Hellebuyck should receive the honor. Winger Matthew Tkachuk reportedly offered his gold medal to the President, who jokingly said he wouldn’t return it.
The Department of Defense posted a photo on X of Hellebuyck holding a plaque labeled “AMERICA’S SECRETARY OF DEFENSE!” Trump also stated the U.S. Women’s hockey team, also gold medal winners, would attend the White House. But, it was previously reported that the women’s team declined the invitation after audio surfaced of Trump suggesting he would face impeachment if he didn’t also invite them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Presidential Medal of Freedom?
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest honor a civilian can receive in the United States, alongside the Congressional Gold Medal. It was established in 1945 and renamed in 1963.
When did the U.S. Men’s hockey team win their gold medal?
The U.S. Men’s hockey team won the gold medal at the Winter Olympics in Italy two days before President Trump’s State of the Union address, defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime.
Who else has President Trump announced will receive the medal?
President Trump has also announced that Charlie Kirk, Rudy Giuliani, and Ben Carson will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
As the U.S. Celebrates its Olympic victories, what does it mean when political figures align themselves with these moments of national achievement?
