105-Year-Old WWII Veteran Plays National Anthem at Islanders Game

Dominick Critelli, a 105-year-old World War II veteran, once again performed the national anthem on his saxophone at the New York Islanders' home opener on Saturday. The game against the New Jersey Devils saw Critelli honored as the veteran of the game, receiving a jersey with the number 105 from Islanders alum Butch Goring.

This performance follows his viral rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at an Islanders-Rangers game last December. Critelli expressed his deep appreciation for the United States, stating, "What this country has done for me, no other country in the world could do—and I mean that." He added, "I love the USA, and I wouldn’t change it."

Critelli's service includes surviving the Normandy landings at Utah Beach and flying 14 supply and medicine drops behind enemy lines during the Battle of the Bulge. For his contributions to the liberation of France, French President Emmanuel Macron knighted him in 2024. He is a recipient of the Air Medal and three Bronze Stars.

Born in Calabria, Italy, in 1921, Critelli immigrated to the United States at age 8. A musician before the war, he entertained troops and performed at VIP events in Europe with his saxophone. He recalls one significant performance in the Netherlands at the end of the war, playing on top of a tank for newly liberated civilians.

Since his story gained wider attention, Critelli has been invited to speak at schools, where he discusses American freedoms with students. He continues to play music and share his experiences, motivated by a desire to honor those who could not speak or act freely themselves.

Critelli, who still keeps his wartime saxophone and sheet music for "The Star-Spangled Banner" near his bed, views his performances as a way to give back and remember the sacrifices made during the war.