Las Vegas Shooting: Survivors, Responders Celebrated by Anaheim Ducks

ANAHEIM, CA — Vegas Strong was the phrase of the night Wednesday at Anaheim Ducks Honda Center during the Ducks vs. Islanders game. With family members in attendance, victims and first responders were celebrated in a somber ceremony above the ice.

The gathering was healing for many, many of whom wore their Duck's jerseys and wave to the crowd while the announcer called each by name during the #VegasStrong tribute.

Orange County resident Jonathan Smith told journalists that he was truly blessed to be part of the event.

"It's a different feeling, because now I have people I can talk to about the incident, it is a relief and a blessing to be around those types of people right now," Smith told Kent French of Fox Sports News.

"No one should be left behind," Smith said. "I checked out myself and figured that I can put myself in harm's way to save a few people."

Smith, who was shot in the attack, is credited with saving nearly 30 people during the shooting.

"This event hit us here at home," the announcer stated, as the Ducks welcomed 20 individuals who were either injured or performed heroically that day.

Residents who were honored came from:

Coto De Caza, Mission Viejo, Valencia, Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, Tustin, Orange, Buena Park, Corona and Yorba Linda.

Fans applauded their courage and bravery while players rattled the boards with their hockey sticks.

The Anaheim Ducks Foundation made a donation to the national compassion fund that will directly benefit those impacted by the Las Vegas shooting.

"Tonight's beneficiary for the 50/50 raffle is the National Compassion Fund, who is partnering with the Las Vegas Victims Fund which will directly support victims' immediate and long-term needs resulting from the tragic event in Las Vegas," they said.

Photo: Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images