LTC Craig J. Alia is a native of Saddle Brook, NJ and was commissioned in 1992 upon graduation from the United States Military Academy.

His first assignment after flight school was in the 4th Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, CO, where he served as a Platoon Leader, Assistant S3, and Battalion S1. Following the Aviation Advanced Course, LTC Alia served as the Garrison Commander for Camp Page, Korea. Upon his return from Korea, LTC Alia was assigned to the 82nd Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, NC where he served as the Brigade Assistant S4 and the A Company Commander, 2nd Battalion (Assault), 82nd Aviation Brigade deploying the company to Bosnia in support of 3ID's operations. Following command, LTC Alia served in the 18th Airborne Corps G3 aviation cell until his PCS to Fort Leavenworth, KS. LTC Alia served as the HHC, Combined Armed Center Company Commander for a year after which he attended the Army Command and General Staff College and the School for Advanced Military Studies (SAMS).

Upon graduation from SAMS, LTC Alia returned to the 82nd Airborne Division where he served as both the Division G3 Plans Officer and the G3 Aviation Officer. Following his tenure on the division staff, LTC Alia served as the Executive Officer for 2nd Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade during the battalion's deployment to Afghanistan. Shortly after returning from Afghanistan LTC Alia served as the Executive Officer for the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade. LTC Alia's most recent assignment was as the 82nd Airborne Division Deputy G3 and Plans Chief in both Afghanistan and garrison.

LTC Alia is a graduate of Initial Entry Rotary Wing Course; Aviation Officer Basic and Advanced Course; Maintenance Managers Course; Command and General Staff College; School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS).

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Stare Medal, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal and numerous other awards. He has earned the Combat Action Badge, the Senior Aviator Badge, the Senior Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge.