Patriotism took center ice in New York this weekend, offering a powerful reminder of what American pride looks like when it’s lived—not lectured.
Before the puck dropped on Saturday’s matchup between the New York Islanders and the New York Rangers, fans at UBS Arena witnessed a moment rarely seen in modern sports: a 104-year-old World War II hero, Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli, stepping onto the ice with the help of an assistant, saxophone in hand.
Wearing a custom Islanders jersey emblazoned with the number 104, Critelli delivered a flawless and deeply moving rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. As the notes echoed through the arena, fans from both teams stood shoulder to shoulder, hands over hearts, singing along—Islanders and Rangers supporters united in respect for country and sacrifice.
When Critelli held the final note for a dramatic finish, the crowd erupted into chants of “USA! USA!” The Army veteran responded with a crisp salute before making his exit, visibly moved but unmistakably proud.
(Video Credit: NHL)
According to the National Hockey League, “Critelli spent 151 days in combat during World War II, surviving the Battle of the Bulge and flying behind enemy lines to provide isolated American troops with much-needed supplies.” For that service, he earned the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Theater Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal.
Critelli immigrated to the United States from Italy as a child and later served as an aircraft mechanic with the 95th Infantry Division Headquarters Battery. His life story reflects the classic American immigrant journey—one defined by gratitude, hard work, and fierce loyalty to his adopted homeland.
That loyalty was formally recognized overseas last year. On the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, French President Emmanuel Macron awarded Critelli the Legion of Honor, France’s highest civilian and military distinction.
“He pins a medal on me, kisses me on both cheeks,” Critelli joked afterward, recalling the ceremony. “And I ask, ‘If I’m a knight, where’s my sword and horse?’ ”
Ahead of Saturday’s game, Critelli spoke plainly about why America still matters.
“I love this country,” he told the New York Post. “If I hadn’t come to this country, I’d be stuck with Mussolini.”
The moment resonated far beyond the arena. Social media lit up with praise for the patriot and what he represents in a time when national pride is too often mocked or dismissed.
The best thing that happened at the game last night. 🇺🇸 https://t.co/XDrOY4EE7C
— Kennedy (@KennedyNation) December 28, 2025
This brought me to tears. That was beautiful!!!!!
— MoonDoggy (@Jurkowsk1Moon) December 29, 2025
104 and still crushing it. Respect.
— NoBanks Nearby 👉 apple.co/4otr5L2 (@NoBanksNearby) December 28, 2025
Others framed the moment more pointedly, calling it a reminder of what generations of Americans fought to preserve.
This is the American pride that needs to be celebrated. It’s what patriots fought to honor.
Don’t let illegals rob us of these moments.
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) December 29, 2025
