A memorable performance always deserves an encore.
Staff Sergeant Dominick Critelli, a 105-year-old World War II veteran, played the "Star-Spangled Banner" at UBS in front of a capacity crowd before the New York Islanders 2026-27 home opener.
Critelli and his trusty saxophone have performed at UBS Arena before, most recently in December of 2025.
Clearly he was asked back on merit, as he brought the barn down again on Saturday night. The only major difference? This year's custom Islanders jersey was number "105" instead of the "104" he wore back in December.
After completion of the song, Critelli tipped his cap to the applauding crowd, which was whipped into a frenzy by the performance.
Critelli spent 151 days in combat during World War II and was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three Bronze Stars, the American Theater Medal, the WWII Victory Medal, and Good Conduct Medal for his service.
