Indiana Recognizes Matt Craig’s Lifetime of Service with Prestigious Award

In Indiana, State Rep. Chris May has honored longtime Naval Support Activity Crane advocate Matt Craig with the prestigious Circle of Corydon Award, recognizing decades of service that have strengthened both the state’s defense network and its communities.

Craig, a Heltonville resident, is retiring from his role as director of Crane Community Support for Radius Indiana, where he dedicated his career to expanding NSA Crane’s advocacy network and building new opportunities for research and investment across Southern Indiana. His leadership has helped ensure that the installation remains a cornerstone of both national defense and the regional economy.

“Matt embodies the drive, perseverance and passion for his community that is worthy of the Circle of Corydon Award,” May said. “I am proud to present him with this award for the lasting impact he has made in Southwest Indiana.”

The Circle of Corydon Award is among Indiana’s highest honors, given to citizens whose remarkable contributions leave a lasting imprint on the state. Craig’s work at NSA Crane and with Radius Indiana reflects exactly that level of achievement, blending technical expertise with community-focused leadership.

During his time with Radius Indiana, Craig played a pivotal role in creating and strengthening partnerships between NSA Crane and surrounding communities. He was instrumental in establishing initiatives such as the White River Military Coordination Alliance and the Crane Regional Defense Group, organizations designed to align regional resources with national defense needs. These groups will continue to shape Southern Indiana’s future, fostering collaboration, investment, and workforce opportunities long after Craig’s retirement.

Craig’s career journey speaks to his lifelong dedication to service. Before joining Radius Indiana, he retired after 30 years at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, one of the Navy’s premier research and development facilities. He served in key leadership roles including deputy technical director and interim technical director, guiding large-scale projects critical to U.S. defense readiness. Earlier in his career, he led the Microwave Systems and Spectrum Warfare departments and managed the Radar and Microwave Technology business units, overseeing vital advancements in defense technology.

Craig’s commitment to service began even earlier, with hands-on experience in uniform. He first served as a radio electronics technician in the Indiana Army National Guard before joining the U.S. Navy, where he worked as a fire control radar technician and leading petty officer. That practical military background gave him both technical expertise and a deep understanding of the mission, which later shaped his leadership style.

Throughout his career, Craig has also been deeply engaged with professional organizations. His memberships include the American Society of Naval Engineers, the National Defense Industrial Association, and the Association of Old Crows. These affiliations underscore his commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continued progress within the defense sector.

Over the years, Craig’s work has been widely recognized. He received the Meritorious Civilian Service Award for his efforts to improve the operations and efficiency of NSWC Crane, a recognition of his ability to enhance outcomes at one of Indiana’s most important installations. Former Governor Mike Pence also honored him with the Sagamore of the Wabash, the state’s highest civilian award given to distinguished Hoosiers who have made extraordinary contributions to Indiana.

As Craig retires, his impact will continue to ripple through the partnerships and organizations he helped to build. His legacy lies not only in technical achievements and leadership roles but also in the stronger ties between NSA Crane and the communities that support it. Those efforts have laid a foundation that will benefit Indiana’s defense ecosystem for generations to come.

The Circle of Corydon Award provides a fitting capstone to Craig’s career, honoring his decades of service, his innovative leadership, and his commitment to community. For Indiana, it reaffirms the importance of leaders who dedicate themselves not only to their work but also to ensuring that their state and its people thrive.