At 104 years old, Dominick Critelli stepped onto the ice at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on December 27, 2025, and did something that stopped an entire arena cold: he lifted his soprano saxophone, took a deep breath, and played the National Anthem with a soul shaped by a century of history. Escorted by the New York Islanders’ Energy Team and wearing a custom blue jersey emblazoned with the number 104, the World War II veteran didn’t just perform “The Star-Spangled Banner”—he carried it, infusing every note with the weight of memory, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism.
The crowd expected a tribute to a hero. What they got was a profound moment that transcended the heated rivalry between the Islanders and the New York Rangers. As Critelli’s notes rose and fell through the packed arena of over 17,000 fans, the atmosphere shifted. Phones lowered. Applause waited. Silence did the honoring. His tone wasn’t flashy or rushed—it was steady, deliberate, and deeply felt, as if every phrase carried echoes of battlefields, liberation, and a lifetime of gratitude. Fans from both teams stood in unison, many with hands over hearts, singing along softly before erupting into thunderous “U-S-A!” chants as he held the final note with remarkable poise.
Born on April 8, 1921, in Tiriolo, Italy, Critelli immigrated to the United States as a child, embracing the country that became his home. A Floral Park, New York, resident, he earned a music degree from NYU before World War II called him to service. As a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army’s 95th Infantry Division, 378th Infantry Regiment, he served as an aircraft mechanic, enduring 151 days in combat across the European theater. He survived the Normandy landings, the brutal Battle of the Bulge, and flew 14 perilous missions behind enemy lines to deliver vital supplies—blood plasma, blankets, and more—to isolated American troops. His decorations include the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Theater Medal, the WWII Victory Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.
In 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron knighted him with the Legion of Honor, France’s highest military distinction, for his role in liberating the country—a ceremony attended by then-President Joe Biden. Critelli has long credited music for his longevity, practicing an hour daily and attributing his vitality to “good wine and humor.” He’s played saxophone for over 90 years, once leading a 17-piece big band, Dominick Critelli and the Sound of Music Orchestra, in the 1970s after a 20-year career teaching in New York City schools.
This performance wasn’t his first brush with large audiences—he played atop tanks for jubilant crowds during the liberation of the Netherlands—but it was profoundly personal. Critelli dedicated it to fallen comrades, telling reporters beforehand, “I love this country.” Living just minutes from UBS Arena, he’s a devoted Islanders fan, calling hockey his “only game.” The team celebrated him post-game with an Instagram post declaring a “1-0 in the Dominick Critelli Era” after their 2-0 shutout victory.
Videos of the rendition exploded online, amassing millions of views across platforms. Fans described it as “mesmerizing,” “tear-jerking,” and “the best anthem performance ever.” One viral clip from the Islanders’ account captured the unity: rival fans chanting together in reverence. Media outlets from NHL.com to NBC News hailed it as a highlight that overshadowed the game itself. “He nailed it,” the NHL reported, noting how Islanders and Rangers supporters sang in harmony.
In an era when national anthems can spark debate, Critelli’s rendition reminded everyone of its unifying power. No embellishments, no controversy—just pure, heartfelt patriotism from a man who lived the history it evokes. As he saluted the crowd before being escorted off the ice, beaming with quiet pride, the arena’s roar affirmed: this was more than music. It was a life lesson in resilience, gratitude, and the enduring spirit of those who served.
Critelli’s story resonates deeply in 2026, as fewer WWII veterans remain. His performance bridged generations, turning a pregame ritual into a poignant tribute. Fans left UBS Arena not just talking about the shutout, but about the 104-year-old who carried the anthem—and a nation’s heart—with grace.
In the words of one attendee shared widely online: “He didn’t just play the anthem—he carried it.” And in doing so, Dominick Critelli reminded us all what it truly means to stand for something greater.
