But this one was VP during a year that saw a short war, first woman in space … and more.

Tom Long / The Detroit News

In 1983, when Steve Yzerman joined the Red Wings, George Bush spent time in the White House.

Not today's President, George W. Bush, of course. It was his father, George H.W. Bush, and he was the vice president. He didn't live in the White House, but he visited President Ronald Reagan.

Yzerman joining the Red Wings was 1983's high spot, of course, but among the year's other notable events:

The U.S. invaded Grenada. Not surprisingly, that was a very short war.

Sally Ride, the first U.S. woman in outer space, was launched into history books.

The year's top movie was "Return of the Jedi," supposedly the culmination of a trilogy. A young actor named Jeff Daniels made his name on the big screen with a tearjerker called "Terms of Endearment." And while leg warmers were all the rage thanks to "Flashdance," a kid named Tom Cruise did wonders for white briefs in a movie called "Risky Business."

The Police turned stalking into a pop hit with "Every Breath You Take." And Michael Jackson -- remember moonwalking? -- thrilled audiences with "Billie Jean."

TV audiences were awash in prime-time soaps, with "Dallas" and "Dynasty" ruling the airwaves.

Most importantly, of course, 1983 marked the debut record album of a shy girl born in Bay City, Mich. Her name was Madonna. Yes, in 1983 people still bought record albums.