At 103, a World War II veteran from Long Island is winning over fans with his saxophone prowess.
Dominick Critelli, who earned his stripes in the United States Army, came to New York at just eight years old through Ellis Island. “From Italy to here. I was just a kid,” he said, recalling the tough times of the Great Depression and Prohibition era that marked his early years in America.
He learned English in school, and by 20, he was overseas, working as an airplane mechanic. He touched down in France just a week after the D-Day invasion of Normandy. Reflecting on that time, he shared a stark memory: “When we finally hit the beach, what I saw was horrific. I feel sorry for them. All my good friends… they died,” he recounted during an emotional interview with the press.
Critelli was there on V-E Day when the Nazis surrendered in May 1945. He was awarded five medals of honor for his outstanding service—which is something the humble hero rarely talks about.
He shrugged off questions about his medals with a simple, ‘I never even show them.'”
After returning to the United States, Critelli resumed his education, earning a college degree. He later ventured into the construction industry, building seven houses in the Village of Floral Park, where he now calls home.
Critelli just celebrated his 103rd birthday on April 8. Reflecting on his long life, he expressed a desire not merely to live fully but to experience specific joys—seeing places he’s dreamed of and meeting people who enrich his journey.
On June 6, marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Dominick Critelli will be recognized by the French government at Utah Beach. In honor of his valiant efforts during World War II and his contributions to freeing France, he will be knighted as Sir Dominick. His daughter, Nancy McLaughlin, will accompany him for this significant event.
“It’s really exciting to go back to France with him, especially to Utah Beach. It’s going to be an emotional trip,” Nancy shared, reflecting on the significance of the journey.
Critelli holds a deep hope that the world will continue to remember the sacrifices that he and his comrades made during those critical days of the war.
“In this country, everybody is free. They better get someone to protect us because the veterans are gone,” he stated.
Critelli, who continues to live an active lifestyle even at 103, likes to practice his saxophone daily and exercise at the Floral Park Recreation Center. He takes a senior agility class combining tai chi and a gentle workout twice weekly. He now walks with a cane after he fell and broke his right femur when he was 101, but he can still make it up and down stairs and walk around relatively well.
“I’d never thought I’d make it to 103,” he said, then added, “I’m looking forward to [104].”
Critelli’s band, the Sound of Music Orchestra, plays on Long Island multiple times yearly. He is the youngest member and says his saxophone brings inspiration from an era of pride.
“I still love it. This is in my whole body,” he said.
