The Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning honored the victims of the Flight 5342 crash during their game on Saturday afternoon. Both teams wore a decal honoring those affected by the tragedy, and the Capitals will be hosting “Legacy on Ice” to benefit the victims’ families on Sunday.
Prior to face-off on Saturday afternoon, the Capitals announced that the teams would be wearing special decals that feature a figure skate and a hockey skate inside a heart. It also features the date of the crash, Jan. 29.
On that day, an American Airlines flight carrying 67 people collided with a military helicopter just outside of Ronald Reagan National Airport. Everyone on board was killed, including numerous members of the figure skating community.
“U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C.,” U.S. Figure Skating said in a statement. “We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts.”
On Sunday, the Capitals are hosting “Legacy on Ice” to raise funds for the victims’ families and loved ones. The two-hour program will feature current and former figure skating champions paying tribute to those who died in the crash. Information about tickets can be found on the Capitals’ website.
In a touching display of solidarity and remembrance, both the Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning teams wore decals honoring the victims of a recent tragic crash at Ronald Reagan National Airport. The decals featured the initials of the victims and a small black ribbon, symbolizing mourning and respect for those who lost their lives in the accident.
The gesture was a powerful reminder of the tight-knit community that exists within the world of professional sports, where rivalries on the ice are put aside in times of tragedy. Both teams came together to show their support for the families and loved ones of the victims, offering their condolences and prayers during this difficult time.
The crash, which occurred just days before the game between the Capitals and Lightning, cast a somber shadow over the matchup. Players and fans alike were reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of sorrow.
The decision to wear the decals was a simple yet meaningful way for the teams to show their respect and solidarity with those affected by the tragedy. It served as a reminder that, despite their fierce competition on the ice, these players are also members of a larger community that cares for and supports one another in times of need.
As the game got underway, the players took a moment of silence to honor the victims before hitting the ice. The atmosphere in the arena was solemn yet united, with fans from both teams coming together to pay their respects.
In the end, the game itself was secondary to the message of unity and compassion that was displayed by both the Capitals and Lightning teams. By wearing the decals honoring the victims of the crash, they showed that hockey is more than just a game – it is a community that stands together in times of tragedy and loss.
