Major General Christopher Craige, USAF (Ret.)

Major General Christopher Craige, USAF (Retired), is a highly decorated, retired United States Air Force Two-Star General officer who most recently served as Commander of the U.S. Air Force’s Personnel Center, responsible for running programs covering the entire life cycle of military and civilian actions with worldwide operations impacting nearly two million total force Airmen, retirees, and family members.

With over 30 years in the Air Force, he commanded military forces at every level. General Craige, commissioned as a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, served as a command pilot, accumulating over 3,900 hours of flight time in multiple aircraft, including the F-15E, C-21, and C-130H, with combat operations in both Afghanistan and Iraq.

Known for his proven strategic leadership and team-building skills, General Craige commanded Incirlik Air Base in Turkey during NATO’s defensive response and posturing for the complex Syrian civil war. He also led as the Commanding General of an Air Expeditionary Wing in Kabul, Afghanistan, where his team fielded critical attack and mobility capabilities for the Afghan Air Force, all while protecting U.S. and coalition forces.

Throughout his time with the Department of Defense, General Craige served in various capacities, collaborating with multiple services, congressional, and federal agencies in several joint-service commands. As lead strategist for a combatant command, he focused national security priorities for Africa, alongside key partners within our State Dept. and USAID teams. General Craige also served as Chief of Staff to a major command in Europe and Africa, leading and facilitating airpower efforts supporting both continents. In the halls of the Pentagon, he oversaw the executive development, talent management, and career mapping for all Air Force General Officers. Additionally, General Craige held the role of the Air Force’s Military Aide to the Vice President, coordinating daily between VPOTUS, his National Security Affairs team, the White House Situation Room, and the President’s Emergency Operations Center.

In addition to his degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy, General Craige holds master’s degrees from Embry-Riddle University, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the National War College. His distinguished career and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on the U.S. Air Force and national security.