Trump Honors U.S. Men’s Hockey Team

During the State of the Union address, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. men’s hockey team would be recognized, and gold medal-winning goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The team, proudly wearing their medals, was welcomed with cheers of “USA, USA, USA” as they entered the chamber.

“We have a group of winners here tonight who have made the entire country proud!” Trump exclaimed. The applause continued for quite a while, eventually resulting in a standing ovation for the team.

Trump playfully noted, “This is the first time I’ve ever seen them stand up,” making a light joke about some Democrats in attendance. “Actually, not everyone woke up.”

He praised Hellebuyck, saying, “I’ve never seen a goaltender play as well as Connor,” sharing that he had consulted with his teammates before deciding to honor Hellebuyck with the medal. “What I want to say is that the members of this great hockey team, based on their vote and my vote—my vote was more important in this case—will be glad to know I’ll be awarding Connor with the highest civilian honor soon. It has been given to many athletes over the years, but let’s say maybe 12.”

When Trump declared, “This is said to be our country’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” the audience burst into cheers.

According to the team chairman, all members voted for Hellebuyck to receive the award.

At 32, the Michigan-born Hellebuyck plays for the Winnipeg Jets in the NHL.

Following their historic win, where President Trump triumphed over a Canadian rival to secure gold at the Milan Winter Olympics, the players are set to visit the White House and be honored at a speech before Congress.

In a video from the team’s locker room shortly after the win, FBI Director Kash Patel can be heard recording as Trump remarked, “You guys were in disbelief.”

When asked if they could attend the State of the Union, the players eagerly responded, “We’ll be there!”

As the call wrapped up, Trump added, “We love you all. Congratulations…I’m going to shake everyone’s hands, but I had to shake that goalie’s hand!”