March 18, 1955 - by 'Frustrated'

It was a mistake from the beginning for Clarence Campbell to show up at the Montreal Forum last night. After having suspended Maurice Richard, Campbell made it well known that he would be attending Montreal’s game on March 17th against the Detroit Red Wings (7). Richard fans have been very vocal about their anger and hate towards Campbell, some going as far as giving death threats (7). None the less, Campbell arrived sometime after the puck drop and was bombarded with booing, rotting fruit and eggs, among other things (12). (18)
The real madness started when a young fan lied to security – telling them that he wished to shake Campbell’s hand – and made his way towards Campbell (12). Once in front of Campbell the fan struck him in the face several times before being stopped by security (12). The next thing I heard on the news was that the streets near the Forum were in dismay as people vandalized and rioted.
(19)
I respect Campbell for sticking to his word, and I strongly believe that the Rocket’s punishment is fair; however he may have overestimated his power this time. He was lucky to get out of the Forum with his life.