Who is Dominick Critelli? 105-year-old WWII veteran plays national anthem on saxophone at Islanders game - Watch Viral Video

Dominick Critelli gave New York Islanders fans a moment to remember before Saturday night’s home opener against the New Jersey Devils. At 105 years old, this World War II veteran stepped into the arena and played 'The Star-Spangled Banner' on his saxophone for the packed house. Dressed up in an Islanders jersey that carried the number 105 on it, Critelli got a thunderous applause from the crowd before tipping his hat to the appreciative fans. The inspiring performance quickly attracted attention well beyond the hockey world.

DOMINICK CRITELLI RETURNS TO ISLANDERS GAME AT AGE 105

This wasn’t Critelli’s first memorable appearance at UBS Arena. The decorated veteran previously performed the national anthem there in December 2025, when the Islanders hosted their cross-town rivals, the New York Rangers.

At the time, Critelli was 104 and wore a custom No. 104 Islanders jersey. His saxophone rendition ended with fans from both teams chanting 'USA!' as he saluted the crowd. This time around, his jersey was updated to No. 105 to mark his age.

Critelli was also honored as the game veteran during Saturday’s home opener and received his jersey from Islanders legend Butch Goring, according to the New York Post.

His love for the United States remains at the heart of his appearances.

"What this country has done for me, no other country in the world could do - and I mean that," Critelli told the New York Post.

"I love the USA, and I wouldn’t change it," he added.

WHO IS WORLD WAR II VETERAN DOMINICK CRITELLI?

Born in Italy in 1921, Critelli moved to the United States when he was eight years old and developed a love for music at 13. He later trained as a musician at NYU and took his saxophone overseas while serving during World War II.

Critelli spent 151 days in combat and survived the 'Battle of the Bulge'. According to NHL.com, he received the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Theater Medal, World War II Victory Medal and Good Conduct Medal for his service.

According to the New York Post, Critelli also survived the Normandy landings at Utah Beach and carried out 14 dangerous missions dropping supplies and medicine to stranded troops during the Battle of the Bulge. French President Emmanuel Macron knighted him in 2024 for his contribution to the liberation of France.

Music has remained an important part of Critelli’s life. During the war, he performed for troops and at VIP events, and he continued playing after returning home.

More than eight decades later, Critelli is still using his saxophone to honor his country and those who served alongside him - this time in front of thousands of cheering hockey fans.