True and Fascinating Canadian History
THE LEGEND : THE LEADER
Mr. Paul Henderson
Canada'S Hockey Hero
Canada'S Hockey Hero
Canada celebrated a magical moment one day in 1972. And in the hockey world, 'the goal' has not been forgotten. Nor have Canadians forgotten the Winners.
Not unlike thousands and thousands of other Canadian hockey fans, I too well remember the day that Paul Henderson scored the winning goal for Canada against the Russians in the famous of all Hockey Series of 1972. Even in 2013, it seems that no one wants to let go of that memorable day.
My 1972 hockey memories are stirred by the following story. After several years with the RCMP on BC's Lower Mainland, I had been transferred to PEI which was much closer to my parents in New Brunswick. In those days, Canada's air was charged with electricity because the Canadian - Russian Hockey Series was to be played in the fall of 1972. There was absolutely no doubt in the minds of coast-to-coast hockey fans that Canada would win the Series. Hopefully.
On the day that the Canadian Team left for Russia, I was working day shift on Charlottetown Highway Patrol. CBC airwaves were saturated with hype and talk about the Series, the scores and statistics and the strength of Canadian players; few will ever forget their names; Esposito, Savard, Hull, Gilbert, Cashman, Dryden, Mahovlich, Mikita, Cournoyer and Hadfield. Plus Ron Ellis and Paul Henderson and others.
At the end of day shift, I returned from highway duties to 'L' Division HQ. I met the CO, Chief Superintendent L. G. Pantry as I was about to enter the Detachment. I knew him quite well, so I said; 'Sir, we should send Team Canada a farewell telegram.' He replied: 'Good idea Healy, scratch something out and give it to me'.
The CO's quick response to my idea caught me off guard because I hadn't any idea what to say in a telegram, but then he said, 'It's got to go to Toronto and it's day's end so bring it to me right away.'
I had no idea how to compose a congratulatory telegram, but I wrote some words on a piece of paper and took it to him. He was appreciatative of my prompt action and for my efforts and then he sent the telegram to Team Canada with my nine words:
Not long after the CO sent the telegram, he received a reply from Team Canada. Their letter is shown hereunder.
It is not every day that one meets Canada's most celebrated hockey legend, Mr. Paul Henderson. I did, however, have a chance to be with him in February, 2013 at an Ottawa Charity Dinner held for Christie Lake Kids.
Mr. Henderson was accompanied by his best hockey pal, Mr. Ron Ellis. The two men were relaxed, cordial and full of quips and hockey stories.
I showed the two hockey stars the telegram which the RCMP had sent to them in 1972. They laughed and expressed their appreciation to me. And quite truthfully, I was in awe to talk with two of Canada's greatest hockey stars. I felt very, very proud to learn more about their community volunteer work as well as to personally meet them. They are two fine gentlemen.
Today, Mr. Paul Henderson and Mr Ron Ellis remain Great Hockey Heros and Great Canadian Winners.