At a Glance
- 104-year-old veteran Dominick Critelli played the saxophone at an Islanders-Rangers game on Long Island.
- He performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” in front of 18,000 fans.
- The tribute honored fallen friends and reminded young fans of the country’s heritage.
Why it matters: It shows how a sports arena can become a stage for a veteran’s personal homage, inspiring a new generation.
On a heated night in Long Island, the Islanders-Rangers rivalry turned into a heartfelt tribute when Dominick Critelli, a 104-year-old Army staff sergeant and WWII survivor, took the stage to play the “Star-Spangled Banner” on his soprano sax.
A Veteran’s Tribute
Dominick Critelli, who immigrated from Italy at age 8, has played sax since 13 and performed in front of large crowds, including at UBS Arena in 2023. He said:
Dominick Critelli stated:
> “It makes me happy.”
He added:
Dominick Critelli said:
> “I lost a lot of friends.”
> “I’m doing this for them.”
During the performance, the arena erupted in chants of “U-S-A,” but Critelli was so focused that he missed them.
Dominick Critelli laughed:
> “Oh my god, I missed that!”
He emphasized the importance of the moment for young listeners:
Dominick Critelli noted:
> “I was so interested in ‘the land of the free,'”
> “I want the kids to remember that, because that’s very important to them.”
He also played his favorite tune “Oh Marie” with ease and precision.
Personal History
Critelli’s medals and memories adorn his home in Floral Park, New York, where an American flag waves above a sign reading “A proud veteran lives here.”
He is a decorated Army staff sergeant who survived the Battle of the Bulge and has practiced his instrument an hour a day.
His mission was simple: stay sharp and pay tribute to the country he loves.
Dominick Critelli mused:
> “I mean, is there any better song to play than ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’?”
He added:
> “Beautiful, you put your heart in it.”
Broader Context
News Of Los Angeles Senior Sports Reporter Mike Ozanian breaks down why Canadian teams dominate American teams when it comes to NHL valuations and how it comes down to local TV rights.
Key Takeaways
- 104-year-old veteran Dominick Critelli honored fallen friends by playing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at a crowded NHL game.
- His performance highlighted the personal connection veterans can bring to public events.
- The tribute reminded fans, especially young ones, of the importance of national pride and remembrance.
The night proved that a single saxophone can bridge generations and turn a sports rivalry into a powerful act of remembrance.
