Attendees Of The New York Islanders’ Game On Dec. 27 Chanted “U-S-A” As The Veteran Concluded His Performance
At 104 years old, Dominick Critelli has seen a lot of life.
Born in Italy in 1921, his family immigrated to the United States when he was a young boy. Critelli’s love for America is evident by his decorated service in World War 2, and by his continued playing of the National Anthem at events throughout New York.
At the New York Islanders’ hockey match against the New York Rangers on Dec. 27, attendees had the privilege of seeing Critelli play the National Anthem on his soprano saxophone… and he didn’t miss a beat!
Watch 104-Year-Old Dominick Critelli Play The National Anthem
During WW2, Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli served in the U.S. Army as an aircraft mechanic. By 1944, under the command of General George Patton, Critelli was providing valuable aid to troops in the foxholes during the Battle of the Bulge.
Over the course of 14 low-altitude missions with the 378th Regiment, Critelli dropped supplies to the troops below, earning the Air Medal for his brave actions.
Altogether, he served 151 days in combat, according to USA Warrior Stories, and went on to earn the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign medal with three Bronze Campaign Stars, the American Campaign medal, the WWII Victory medal, and the Good Conduct medal.
Taking to the ice on Dec. 27, many cheered as a veteran of WW2, like Critelli, was announced as the performer of the National Anthem.
With his soprano saxophone, he led everyone in the arena in the honoring of the nation, hitting all of his marks and finishing the anthem strong.
As he lowered his sax, many in the audience could be heard chanting “U-S-A.”
Watch his soulful performance, here:
Watch Critelli tell his life story, and learn about his nonprofit Mission Margraten Plus, here:
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