Wayne Gretzky Helping to Celebrate Memory of Fallen NHL Hero Ace Bailey

If you’re a hockey fan, whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard, then I have the event for you. 

There is no other place where some of the greatest hockey players of all time will gather together for one of the most dear and emotional causes in all of New England.

On Sept. 11, 2001, at the age of 53, Ace Bailey was flying to Los Angeles on United Airlines Flight 175 to begin training camp with the Los Angeles Kings, where he was director of pro scouting. On that historic, horrific morning, Bailey’s plane crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City during the terrorist attacks that occurred that day.

It was a day no one will ever forget, especially the family and dear friends of Ace Bailey.

During the grieving process that immediately followed the tragic death of this former NHLer, Bailey’s family founded the Ace Bailey Children's Foundation in his honor and memory. The foundation raises funds to benefit hospitalized children, infants and their families.

The mission statement of this foundation says it all:

The Ace Bailey Children’s Foundation focuses on the well-being of hospitalized children through the establishment and improvement of hospital programs, environments and professional services that reduce the stress of hospitalization for newborns, children and their families. The Floating Hospital for Children, part of Tufts-New England Medical Center in Boston, is the primary recipient of our funding.

In an NHL career spanning 11 seasons and 568 games, Bailey tallied 107 goals and 171 assists with 633 penalty minutes while lacing up for five different teams, including the Boston Bruins, where he won two Stanley Cups in 1969-70 and 1971-72. Throughout his entire career as player and as a scout, Bailey earned seven Stanley Cup rings.

But far and above his achievements on the ice were those amazing endeavors to which he dedicated his life. His huge heart, combined with his sense of humor and humble personality, made Bailey one of the most amicable men to represent the sport.

That is why this year, on March 3, many of the most storied players in NHL history will gather in Ace Bailey’s honor for the "Face Off for Ace" event to raise funds for the Ace Bailey Children’s Foundation.

And this is where you, the fans, can help.

Wayne Gretzky will be the evening’s keynote speaker, and the stories that The Great One will share about his friend and teammate are sure to bring tears and laughs to everyone in attendance.

Among the other hockey celebrities in attendance will be Don Cherry, Ray Bourque, John Bucyk, Ken Hodge, Mike Milbury, Rick Middleton, Terry O’Reilly and president and CEO of the AHL, Dave Andrews.

The evening is sure to be a special event in remembrance of a very heroic man.  Tickets are still available by visiting the Foundation Web site at www.acebailey.org.

If nothing else, visit the Web site and educate yourself on this amazing charity. But if you’re as excited as I am about the March 3 "Face Off for Ace" event, which I am honored to be emceeing, then purchase a ticket to be a part of the evening. I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.