At Chicago Blackhawks home games, one of the most unforgettable moments happens before the puck ever hits the ice. Long before the action begins, the United Center erupts with deafening cheers as fans passionately roar through the national anthem — a cherished tradition led by iconic anthem singer Jim Cornelison.
This thunderous outpouring isn’t about disrespect — it’s a heartfelt expression of patriotism. Rooted in a spirit of unity and national pride, the tradition has become a hallmark of Blackhawks games, elevating the pregame atmosphere to electric levels.
Though its exact origins are debated, many believe the custom began during the 1985 Campbell Conference Finals, when fans tried to rally the team as they faced Wayne Gretzky’s Edmonton Oilers. Others point to the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” as the beginning, while another theory credits the 1991 NHL All-Star Game during the Gulf War — a time when fans drowned out the anthem in a powerful show of support for American troops.
Regardless of when it started, the tradition has remained strong and meaningful. Since 2007, Cornelison has taken the anthem to new heights, famously pointing toward the flag as he delivers the line, “and our flag was still there,” giving fans chills and adding weight to the moment.
Each performance often includes a special guest — an active-duty service member or military veteran — standing beside Cornelison and saluting the flag, reinforcing the anthem’s connection to honor and service. Their presence adds gravity to the performance, with visible pride radiating from their faces.
Some traditionalists still believe the anthem should be observed in respectful silence, but Blackhawks fans have found their own unique way to celebrate — one that blends reverence with energy. In a time of national division, the anthem at the United Center remains a unifying ritual, reaching its peak when Cornelison belts out, “O say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,” and the crowd responds in full voice.
It’s more than a song. For Blackhawks fans, it’s a roar of identity, pride, and unwavering support — for their team, their flag, and their country.
