A 105-year-old World War II Army veteran has thrilled Islanders and Rangers fans with a saxophone performance of the national anthem at the UBS Arena in December 2025. Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli, a trained musician who served in the Army, later became a favorite during troop dances and VIP speeches with his uplifting saxophone talents.
Critelli was an NYU-trained musician before the war. He was invited back to the arena for the Islanders/New Jersey game after his December performance wowed fans from both teams. On Saturday, October 3, he returned to the venue. When he was brought out into the stadium, he was presented with a custom number 105 jersey by Islanders legend Butch Goring before giving another performance of The Star-Spangled Banner.
His performance was met with roars of cheering and applause from both Islanders and Rangers fans alike. The reaction was similar online. “Wow. 105. Still going strong. What a man,” wrote one user on YouTube. Another wrote: “Brought tears to my eyes – that’s what patriotism looks like!”
Critelli’s Military Career
Critelli is an Air Medal and three-time Bronze Star recipient. He was knighted by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2024 for his role in liberating the country from Nazi occupation.
The December Performance
Critelli first performed at the UBS Arena in December 2025. His rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner wowed fans from both teams. The performance drew a positive response from the crowd.
The October Return
On October 3, Critelli was brought out into the stadium. Islanders legend Butch Goring presented him with a custom number 105 jersey. The jersey honored the milestone that made the evening special.
Critelli then gave another performance of The Star-Spangled Banner. The crowd responded with cheers and applause. Fans from both teams joined in, creating a warm atmosphere.
Social Media Reaction
The response online mirrored the live reaction. Fans shared their appreciation for Critelli’s performance and his longevity.
One YouTube user wrote: “Wow. 105. Still going strong. What a man.” Another commented: “Brought tears to my eyes – that’s what patriotism looks like!” The comments reflected a shared sense of awe at seeing a veteran of that age perform publicly.
Critelli’s Love for America
Critelli spoke to The New York Post about his love for his country. “What this country has done for me, no other country in the world could do. And I mean that. I love the USA, and I wouldn’t change it.”
His words captured the essence of his performance. Critelli’s music was not just a tribute to the nation, but a personal expression of his feelings.
A Life Well Spent
Critelli’s journey from NYU-trained musician to World War II veteran to beloved arena performer spans a lifetime. Each phase of his life has shaped who he is today.
His military service defined a significant portion of his adult years. The Bronze Star and Air Medal recognize his service. The knighthood from Macron honors his role in the liberation of France.
His music has remained a constant throughout. Even at 105, he continues to play and perform.
The Key Facts
- Age: 105
- First performance: December 2025, UBS Arena
- Second performance: Saturday, October 3
- Medals: Air Medal, three-time Bronze Star
- Knighthood: Awarded by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2024
- Jersey number: Custom 105
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 105 |
| First performance | December 2025, UBS Arena |
| Second performance | Saturday, October 3 |
| Medals | Air Medal, three-time Bronze Star |
| Knighthood | Awarded by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2024 |
| Jersey number | Custom 105 |
Critelli’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. At 105, he remains active, engaged, and deeply connected to his country. His performance at the UBS Arena was a reminder of what patriotism looks like in action.
Source material: “105-year-old war veteran performs national anthem on saxophone at NHL game,” Dexerto.
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