Trump to award USA hockey goalie with Presidential Medal of Freedom
USA hockey goalie Connor Hellebuyck to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump
President Donald Trump announced he will award U.S. men’s hockey team goaltender Connor Hellebuyck the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“I’ve never seen a goaltender play as well as goalie Connor Hellebuyck,” Trump said. “The members of this great hockey squad will be very happy to hear, based on their vote and my vote, and in this case, my vote was more important, that I will soon be presenting Connor with our highest civilian honor.”
The president announced he would honor Hellebuyck during his Tuesday night remarks after welcoming members of the team, including Hellebuyck, into the chamber, just two days after they took home gold over Canada in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
Hellebuy saved 41 of Canada’s 42 shots during the gold medal game Sunday, playing a major role in the first gold medal for the team since 1980.
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom, created in 1945, is awarded by the president and is often presented to individuals to recognize a lifetime of significant achievements in the arts, public service, science, or other fields.
Trump extended the team an invitation to his address during a phone call Sunday with FBI Director Kash Patel, who was celebrating with the team following its overtime win.
Christian Datoc contributed to this report.
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