For over two decades, Christian Craig dedicated his life to service, discipline, and resilience as part of the elite Parachute Regiment. Joining the armed forces in 1989, he began a career that would take him across the world and place him in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. Aside from a short four-year break, his life remained closely tied to the Parachute Regiment and then the 16th Air Assault Brigade, where the standards are high, the expectations even higher, and the sense of brotherhood runs deep.

Throughout his service, Christian was deployed to many countries including Northern Ireland, Germany, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. Each posting brought its own challenges but also reinforced the values that would stay with him long after leaving the forces – discipline, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to doing the job properly.

During his military career, Christian worked within a bomb disposal unit, a role requiring calmness under pressure, precision, and complete trust in both training and colleagues. He later moved into driver training, delivering this both in Afghanistan – where he supported a medical unit – and in the UK. These roles were vital in preparing others for real-world conditions, and highlighted his ability not just to perform, but to lead and pass on knowledge.

After leaving the Parachute Regiment, Christian continued within the Air Assault Brigade before taking early retirement in 2011. But stepping away from military service didn’t mean stepping away from the values that defined it.

Joining B&E Boys as a driver, Christian quickly became a trusted and highly regarded member of the team. His reliability, professionalism, and strong work ethic made him a natural fit. At B&E Boys, there is a genuine appreciation for the skills and mindset that ex-servicemen bring – and Christian embodies that perfectly.

His story also reflects a wider connection between the company and the armed forces community. B&E Boys has proudly supported ex-servicemen and understands the importance of providing opportunities where those skills can continue to thrive. There is also a shared respect for military vehicles and engineering – something that naturally aligns with the construction industry and the hands-on, practical work the team delivers every day.

Christian and his son Nathan
Christian and his son Nathan

Beyond his own journey, Christian’s influence can be seen in the next generation. His son Nathan joined B&E Boys straight from school as a bricklaying apprentice, learning his trade and building valuable experience before moving on a few years ago. Inspired by his dad’s path, Nathan is now considering applying to join The Paras himself – continuing a legacy of service, discipline, and ambition.A particularly proud moment came when Nathan surprised his dad with a framed display of his medals and badges. It was more than a gift – it was a recognition of a lifetime of dedication, sacrifice, and achievement. A moment that reflects not just pride, but respect between generations.

Christian Craig’s story is one of commitment – to his country, his colleagues, and now his team at B&E Boys. It’s a journey that highlights the lasting value of military experience and the importance of recognising and supporting those who have served.

Supporting those who have served is at the heart of what B&E Boys stands for. Christian’s journey exemplifies the skills, dedication, and resilience that veterans bring to civilian life, and it’s a principle that guides the company’s wider commitments. This is one of the driving factors behind B&E Boys’ involvement with Operation Market Harborough, an event that not only celebrates military heritage but also raises funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. By supporting this cause, the team continues to honour the service of those like Christian and ensure that ex-servicemen and women receive the recognition and assistance they deserve. It’s a way of giving back to a community that has given so much, and of reinforcing the values of service, teamwork, and dedication that remain central to everything B&E Boys does.