On March 2, 2025, Washington, D.C. hosted the 'Legacy on Ice' tribute, honoring the 67 victims of a tragic plane crash, including 28 from the figure skating community, while raising funds for their families and first responders.

The 'Legacy on Ice' tribute not only commemorated the lives lost in the crash but also served as a powerful reminder of community resilience, drawing together prominent figure skaters and emotional performances that highlighted the bond within the skating world. Funds raised during the event will support the victims' families, first responders, and US Figure Skating, underscoring the ongoing impact of the tragedy on both the sport and the community.

Maxim Naumov, the son of two victims, delivered a heartfelt performance that deeply resonated with attendees. Overcome with emotion, he expressed his gratitude for the support and love shown by the skating community during such a painful time. 'This event means so much to us, to keep their memories alive and to feel the strength of our community,' he said during a poignant moment before his performance.

The event attracted many prominent figures from the skating world. Attendees included Olympic champions like Nathan Chen and Kristi Yamaguchi, alongside legends Scott Hamilton, Brian Boitano, and Peggy Fleming, all united in remembrance and respect for their lost colleagues and friends. The presence of so many notable skaters highlighted the pervasive impact of the tragedy on the figure skating community.

The performances during the tribute were deeply emotional, with many skaters shedding tears as they paid homage to their fallen peers. Notable performances included those by Amber Glenn, Johnny Weir, Ilia Malinin, and Madison Chock, each artistically conveying their grief and celebrating the lives of those who perished in the crash.

A particularly touching segment of the program included a moment of silence where attendees reflected on the profound loss experienced by the community. Candles and roses were laid in honor of the deceased, creating a somber yet beautiful atmosphere that encapsulated the spirit of the tribute. The spontaneous outpouring of emotion during this moment underscored the tight-knit nature of the skating world.

Skating legends shared their insights during the event, emphasizing the importance of community strength and support in the wake of the tragedy. 'We know how to come together in adversity,' one iconic skater remarked, highlighting the resilience of the figure skating family. This sentiment resonated throughout the gathering, as attendees embraced the idea of collective healing.

The emotional toll of the tragedy was not limited to the skating community; first responders present at the crash site also felt the weight of the event. Their courage and dedication were acknowledged, reminding attendees of the multifaceted impact of the disaster. Many expressed gratitude for the first responders' efforts, underscoring the shared grief felt by both the skating community and those who assisted in the aftermath of the crash.

Support extended beyond the tribute itself, as the Capitals NHL team showed solidarity by wearing helmet decals during a related game. This gesture demonstrated a broader community support for the victims and their families, linking different sports in their collective mourning and remembrance. Fans and athletes alike rallied around the common theme of support and love for those impacted by the tragedy.

In all, the 'Legacy on Ice' tribute served not just as a memorial, but as a platform for healing and unity within the figure skating community. The event stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the 67 lives lost and the strength of a community that continues to support one another through difficult times.