Bruins to retire Willie O’Ree’s #22 on February 28th

Smiling Joe Hesketh

Throw Momma From the Train
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May 20, 2003
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Absolutely wonderful news. Not only did he break hockey's color barrier, he played pro from 1957-1979 while blind in one eye and hiding it from his teams. An amazing man and an amazing life.
 

The Napkin

wise ass al kaprielian
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Jul 13, 2002
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right here
Shame there won't be fans there but hopefully there will be a chance to recognize him in the future.
 

TFP

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Dec 10, 2007
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Shame there won't be fans there but hopefully there will be a chance to recognize him in the future.
From their statement

Given COVID-19 restrictions, it is possible that this ceremony will take place without fans at TD Garden. Despite this regrettable circumstance, the organization believes that it is important to move forward with a virtual pre-game ceremony and bestow this honor on Willie. Once protocols allow, the Bruins will again honor Willie in front of a full TD Garden.
 

cornwalls@6

Less observant than others
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Apr 23, 2010
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from the wilds of western ma
Awesome news, and so well deserved. I'm sure there's urgency given his age to do this ASAP. Hopefully he's able to be there when fans are back as well, and fully take in all the appreciation. A major trailblazer, and a true gentleman by all accounts.
 

mjs

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Mar 30, 2020
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My knowledge of Bruins history begins with 1970, so I was unfamiliar with his story. There is a nice documentary now on Amazon about his career and the build up to his hockey hall of fame induction. He was a real pioneer and comes across as a nice guy who has made the world a better place. Kudos to the Bruins for this well deserved recognition.
View: https://www.amazon.com/Willie-ORee/dp/B0876856K6
 

ColdSoxPack

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Jul 14, 2005
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Simi Valley, CA
Awesome news, and so well deserved. I'm sure there's urgency given his age to do this ASAP. Hopefully he's able to be there when fans are back as well, and fully take in all the appreciation. A major trailblazer, and a true gentleman by all accounts.
Jesus I thought he died. Glad to hear.