A 104-year-old World War II veteran just proved that patriotism never ages when his saxophone performance of the Star-Spangled Banner brought an entire hockey arena to its feet in thunderous USA chants.
Story Highlights
- Dominick Critelli, 104-year-old WWII Army veteran, performed National Anthem on saxophone at NHL game
- UBS Arena crowd erupted in spontaneous “USA” chants and standing ovation during Rangers vs Islanders matchup
- Italian immigrant veteran credits daily music practice as his secret to longevity and vitality
- Performance demonstrates enduring power of patriotism across generations in American sports culture
When Heroes Take Center Ice
Dominick Critelli shuffled onto the ice at UBS Arena carrying more than just his saxophone. The centenarian veteran carried decades of American history, military service, and an immigrant’s deep appreciation for the country that welcomed him. What happened next reminded everyone present why we stand for the anthem in the first place.
The Rangers and Islanders rivalry took a backseat as Critelli’s saxophone notes filled the arena. His performance wasn’t technically perfect, but it carried something far more valuable than precision – authenticity born from lived experience defending the very freedoms that hockey crowd was celebrating.
The Power of Earned Patriotism
Critelli represents a generation that understood patriotism as duty, not performance. As an Italian immigrant who chose to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II, he embodies the American dream that attracts people worldwide. His service wasn’t compelled by birthright but chosen through conviction.
The crowd’s spontaneous USA chants weren’t orchestrated or manufactured. They erupted organically because authentic patriotism still resonates deeply with Americans when they encounter the real thing. In an era of manufactured controversies around the anthem, Critelli’s performance reminded everyone what genuine respect looks like.
Music as the Fountain of Youth
Critelli attributes his remarkable longevity to daily music practice, revealing a wisdom that extends beyond physical health. Music requires discipline, memory, coordination, and passion – qualities that keep minds sharp and spirits alive. His commitment to daily practice at 104 demonstrates the work ethic that built his generation.
The veteran shows no signs of slowing down, embodying the American spirit of perseverance and continuous improvement. While many his age have long since retired from public life, Critelli continues performing, sharing his gifts and inspiring others through his dedication to craft and country.
When Sports and Patriotism Align
The UBS Arena moment captured something increasingly rare in modern sports – unifying patriotic expression that transcended team loyalties, political divisions, and generational gaps. Rangers and Islanders fans, natural rivals, united in appreciation for Critelli’s service and performance.
This spontaneous display of national pride occurred naturally because it centered on genuine heroism rather than political messaging. Critelli earned his platform through sacrifice and service, not celebrity or controversy. The crowd recognized authentic American excellence and responded accordingly with the respect such dedication deserves.
