Overview
- He performed the Star-Spangled Banner on saxophone at UBS Arena on Dec. 27 before the New York Islanders faced the New York Rangers.
- Fans from both teams sang along, then erupted into “USA” chants as Critelli saluted after holding the final note for nearly 15 seconds.
- Newsday confirms he served in the U.S. Army from Oct. 28, 1942 to Nov. 21, 1945, rising to staff sergeant with the 95th Infantry Division and fighting in the Battle of the Bulge.
- Born in Italy and brought to the U.S. at age eight, Critelli said he aimed to “give it a heart” and he still performs with his Sound of Music Orchestra.
- Outlets differ on whether he used a soprano or alto saxophone, and some circulating wartime specifics come from veteran-story sites rather than independently verified records.