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The New York Islanders are known for having good performers for the national anthem and Saturday night before their game against the New York Rangers at UBS Arena was no exception.
Dominick Critelli, a 104-year-old World War II veteran, took to the ice in a blue Islanders jersey and performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” on his saxophone. The crowd sang “USA” chants after he finished.
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World War II veteran Dominick Critelli plays the national anthem before the game between the New York Islanders and the New York Rangers at UBS Arena on December 27, 2025 in Elmont, New York. (Steven Ryan/NHLI via Getty Images)
Critelli, a staff sergeant who immigrated to the United States from Italy as a child, spent 151 days in combat during World War II. He flew behind enemy lines to deliver supplies to American troops, according to NHL.com.
He received prestigious honors for his military service. He received 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,” the NHL said. He also survived the Battle of the Bulge and the Normandy landings.
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New York Islanders right winger Simon Holmstrom (10) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal in the third period against the New York Rangers at UBS Arena on December 27, 2025. (Wendell Cruz/Imagn Images)
“I love this country,” he told the New York Post before his performance. “If I hadn’t come to this country, I’d be stuck with Mussolini.”
The Islanders also picked up a huge 2-0 victory over their rivals.
Islanders goaltender David Rittich made 27 saves, recording his ninth career shutout. He denied shots from Rangers players Will Cuylle and Artemi Panarin.
New York Islanders goalie David Rittich (33) walks away from the net after making a save on a penalty shot during a third period goal attempt against the New York Rangers at UBS Arena on December 27, 2025. (Wendell Cruz/Imagn Images)
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Andrers Lee and Simon Holmstrom contributed goals for the Islanders.
