A decorated former SAS soldier who helped save civilians during a terrorist attack was reportedly recruited to join Donald Trump’s personal security team.
Christian Craighead, a pseudonym used by the veteran, served in the British Army for 28 years and became internationally known for his actions during the 2019 Nairobi DusitD2 complex attack.
Who is Christian Craighead
He joined the Army aged 16, later serving with the Parachute Regiment, the elite Pathfinder Platoon and 22 Special Air Service (SAS).
During his military career, he completed operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
22 Special Air Service
Craighead spent almost 15 years with 22 SAS, one of the world’s most respected special forces units.
He rose to the rank of Warrant Officer Class 2 and took part in numerous high-risk operations during the War on Terror.
He retired from active military service in September 2020.
Nairobi DusitD2 complex, Kenya
Craighead became internationally known following the al-Shabaab terrorist attack on the Nairobi DusitD2 complex in Kenya on January 15, 2019.
He was off duty when he responded to the attack, helping Kenyan security forces rescue civilians trapped inside the hotel complex.
Witnesses and subsequent reports credited him with repeatedly entering danger zones and helping evacuate civilians while engaging the attackers.
White House, United States
Following the Nairobi attack, Craighead was invited to the White House, where Donald Trump personally thanked him for helping save American lives during the siege.
Reports in 2025 from The Telegraph stated that Craighead had been recruited as part of Trump’s personal security team and bodyguard detail.
He also appeared at a Trump campaign rally in New Jersey, where the president publicly praised his bravery.
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Conspicuous Gallantry Cross
Craighead was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for his actions during the Nairobi attack.
The award is the United Kingdom’s second-highest honour for bravery in combat, after the Victoria Cross.
He had previously been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire.
Ministry of Defence
After leaving the military, Craighead sought permission to publish a memoir about his SAS career and the Nairobi attack.
The Ministry of Defence blocked publication on security grounds.
Craighead challenged the decision through the courts, but the restriction was ultimately upheld.
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