MMA Announces Craig McMillen as New Activities and Recreation Specialist

Missouri Military Academy (MMA) announces the appointment of Cpl Craig McMillen, USMC (Veteran), as the new activities and recreation specialist — a key position focused on enhancing the cadet experience through fun, challenging and engaging activities that promote social interaction, personal growth and new experiences.

A member of the MMA commandant’s division since January 2024, McMillen previously served as a senior company leadership advisor (CLA), where he provided daily mentorship to cadets and guidance to cadet leaders.

Organized by the activities and recreation specialist, off-campus opportunities for MMA cadets annually include trips to major league baseball games in St. Louis and Kansas City.

“Cpl McMillen has demonstrated a strong commitment to our cadets during his time as a CLA, and we look forward to how he will expand his positive influence on cadets through this important role,” said MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “He is a great role model for our cadets and has demonstrated the values we strive to instill — strength of character, responsibility and integrity.”

An annual trip to Hidden Valley Ski Resort in St. Louis is a cadet-favorite.

In this role, McMillen will plan, coordinate and supervise a wide range of recreational, social and extracurricular activities designed to boost cadet morale and well-being, while building confidence, friendships and camaraderie, teamwork and a sense of social responsibility. These activities include monthly birthday celebrations, paintball, camping, fishing, biking, frisbee golf and more, all aimed at creating meaningful memories and encouraging cadets to connect and grow outside the classroom.

McMillen’s responsibilities will include supporting key events such as the Crucible, Scouts Klondike Derby, Lunch Buddies, Hidden Valley Ski Trip, Community Service Day, JROTC Raider Challenge, National Military School Band & Choir Festival, the Super Bowl Party and the Valentine Ball. 

The activities and recreation specialist supports academic enrichment by helping with field trips, such as a middle school trip to Mark Twain Cave in Hannibal, Missouri.

McMillen brings a diverse background in leadership, youth mentorship and operations. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served four years on active duty as an Anti-Tank Missileman, achieving the rank of corporal and deploying overseas twice. He holds a degree in accounting with a minor in business administration from Mid-America Nazarene College. His civilian career has included roles in youth residential care, high school coaching and leadership positions in both nonprofit and private-sector environments. At MMA, he has served in multiple roles, including company leadership advisor, senior CLA and summer camp director.

Cadets celebrate the end of the school year with a field day and picnic, organized by the activities and recreation specialist.

McMillen’s work as activities and recreation specialist represents an exciting opportunity to further enrich cadet life at MMA. Through a wide range of recreational, social, entertaining and character-building programs, cadets will benefit from experiences that support their overall development and help them thrive both individually and as members of the corps.

McMillen will assist with chaperoning off-campus outings, such as the annual trip to the St. Louis Art Museum.