Craig was a second-generation firefighter. His father, Pete, initially served at Handsworth Fire Station before others during his 30-year service.
Craig’s professional journey is testament to his versatility and adaptability. He began his career as a lifeguard, honing his water safety and rescue skills. However, his thirst for new challenges led him to join and serve with the 3rd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, where he further developed his physical and mental resilience.
Craig was eminently proud of the time he spent serving his country. While with 3 Para, he became a combat medic and all-terrain driving specialist.
When it came time for a change in his career, and with a view to further helping our communities, he returned to Birmingham and joined West Midlands Fire Service on 15 April 2004 as a trainee firefighter. Choosing this career directly ensured that Craig could continue to help, protect and serve the most vulnerable members of our society.
Initially posted to Ladywood Green Watch, Craig served at several stations, including Handsworth, Highgate and West Bromwich, before being redeployed into Organisational Learning and People Development (OLPD) in 2018.
Craig was originally diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour in 2011 and given a prognosis of three to five years. However, his resilience saw him defy this prognosis and, with the addition of lifestyle changes, Craig stayed with his family and us for another 13 years. During this time, he helped and advised others with similar conditions, met and married his devoted wife Annette, and saw the arrival of his son Ryan, who is now seven.
Firefighters always move against adversity to overcome challenges. Craig was the epitome of this.
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