Christopher D. Croft, Sr., served for thirty years in active service in the U. S. Army. Chris retired on February 1st, 2018 as a Colonel at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He led several organizations and, served in and visited twenty-two countries.

Chris was deployed to Iraq twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom: first, during the invasion in 2003-2004, and again during the Surge in 2007-2008. During the latter deployment, he commanded Task Force 106 consisting of 1,440 National Guard soldiers from across the U. S. He finished his career as the Executive Director of the Army’s Leadership Center.

Chris attended Columbia University as a U. S. Army War College Fellow from 2012-2013. He studied leadership, leader development, and change management while also serving as the U. S. Army’s ambassador to New York City. In addition, Chris also graduated from the School of Advanced Military Studies and the Command General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth where received his Master’s degree in Operational Art of War (Strategy). Chris earned the Pathfinder, Airborne, Air Assault, and Combat Action badges.

Chris’ military decorations and awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star (2 awards), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (5 awards), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

After retirement from the Army, Chris continued his public service by standing for and winning District 8 of the Kansas State House of Representatives. He serves or has served in the following committees: Redistricting (Chair); Insurance and Pensions (Vice-Chair); Water; Veteran and Military Affairs; Commerce; and Taxation. Chris authored and led the passage of Reciprocal Occupational Licensing legislation. He co-authored several bills: to create a Soldier’s Home in Northeast Kansas; to eliminate food (groceries) sales taxes; to freeze property tax for seniors, disabled veterans, and those making under $50,000; and, to streamline the property tax appeals process. As the Chair of the Redistricting Committee, Chris set up public listening tours in 25 cities and towns around Kansas, including a virtual component to enable all citizens an opportunity to provide input.

Chris was selected by his peers to serve on the board of the Republican House Campaign Committee (RHCC). At RHCC, Chris focused on fundraising to support House members and candidates. Chris was selected twice, in 2019 and 2021, by members of the board to serve as the Chairman. It was the first time a freshman legislator has served as Chairman. During his tenure, Chris expanded the mission of the organization to include recruiting, vetting, supporting, and training members. Chris streamlined the organization and broke fundraising records for both chambers, doubled the record of previous committees, and gained national recognition for these results. He also organized the first-ever joint event of the Kansas House, Senate, and the state GOP.

Chris is married to the former Connie Norwood. They have two children and five grandchildren.