Patrick Allen Critcher is a native of Boone, North Carolina. He enlisted December 2007 where he attended Recruit Training at Parris Island, SC. Upon graduation from recruit training Private First Class Critcher attended Marine Combat Training East, then Communications School 17-08 where he gained the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of 0656 Tactical Data Specialist/Network Specialist. Upon completion of MOS Private First Class Critcher promoted to Lance Corporal.
Lance Corporal Critcher was assigned to Communications Company (-) Headquarter and Service Battalion 4th Marine Logistics Group where he served as a Network Specialist. Lance Corporal Critcher promoted through the ranks of Corporal and Sergeant while at Communication Company. From 2008 to 2012 Sergeant Critcher served in numerous billets of Squad Leader, Training Chief and Platoon Sergeant. In 2013, Sergeant Critcher was assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment 2 Combat Logistics Battalion, Transportation Company. There he deployed as the Security Team Leader for 1st platoon in Helmand Province Afghanistan.
In 2014, Sergeant Critcher reported to Communications Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 45, 4th Marine Logistics Group as the Platoon Sergeant. While at Communications Company Sergeant Critcher promoted to Staff Sergeant and assumed the role of the Company Training Chief and Operation Coordinator. In 2018, Staff Sergeant Critcher executed orders to Marine Corps Security Cooperation Group Miami, Fl. and deployed to Soto Cano Air Base Honduras, serving as the Infantry Unit Leader for the Mobile Training Team, Security Cooperation Training Team 18-2. Staff Sergeant Critcher return to Communications Company in October 2019.
In 2021, he promoted to Gunnery Sergeant where he served as the Company Gunnery Sergeant and acting First Sergeant during COVID-19. In 2025, Gunnery Sergeant Critcher deployed with Deployable Joint Command & Control, detachment supporting the Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade. During that time, he served as the Communications Chief and Senior Enlisted Leader.
January 1st 2026, Gunnery Sergeant Critcher was frocked to First Sergeant and serving as the Company First Sergeant for Company B, 1st Battalion, 23d Marine Regiment.
First Sergeant Critcher personal awards: Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with gold star in lieu of third award and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. He has an Associates in Science from Wilkes Community College.