Veteran: Craig Barnes is the Queen Creek Hometown Hero for March

A community and business leader who has devoted himself to helping his fellow military veterans, Craig Barnes served in the Navy, Army and National Guard, but is perhaps most proud of founding the Duane Ellsworth Post 129 American Legion Post in Queen Creek.

The post was founded in 2004, and he first served as commander from 2004 to 2007 and currently holds the reins again.

Barnes is a charter member of the Sons of the American Legion and was its commander from 2010-2011.

A resident since 2000, Barnes has also served his community, sitting on the Queen Creek Town Council from 2008 to 2017. He also somehow found time to serve as vice president of the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce board of directors from 2003 to 2004 and as chair from 2004 to 2007.

Barnes said he is inspired by fellow veterans, community leaders and “everyday citizens who quietly give their time and effort to make things better without seeking recognition.”

Name: Craig Barnes

Age: 62

Business Name/Organization: Gladiator Drone Solutions, Craig Barnes Realty, C. Barnes Graphics

Town/Neighborhood: Queen Creek

When and why, I moved here: I moved to Queen Creek in 2000 to raise my family in a smaller, close-knit town.

What I like most about living here: You can still see people riding horses down the street — that small-town feel is what makes Queen Creek special.

What I do: I own three businesses and have the honor of serving as commander of the American Legion in Queen Creek.

Personal background highlights: I served in the Navy, National Guard and Army, traveled to 13 countries and witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Professional background highlights: I’ve owned multiple businesses, helped start the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce, helped establish the Queen Creek American Legion and served on the town council for nine years.

What I like most about what I do: Making sure Queen Creek remains the best town to live in and that people are taken care of.

What does being nominated for this category mean to you? It’s an honor beyond words. Just being thought of is humbling.

What does it mean to be a Queen Creek resident? It means taking pride in where you live, knowing your neighbors and being willing to step up and help when the town or community needs it.

What do you think you bring to the local community that makes it better? A strong sense of service, leadership and commitment. I believe in building things that last — whether that’s organizations, businesses or community programs — and making sure no one is left behind.

Why is it important to make a difference in Queen Creek? The town is only as good as the people who keep it alive. Get out of the house, belong to something and help preserve Queen Creek as the town we moved here for.

Changes I’d like to see in this area: Slow down housing developments that are built too close together and work to preserve our small-town charm. Just because Gilbert, Mesa and Chandler are doing it doesn’t mean we have to as well.

Favorite community cause & why: Supporting veterans, youth programs and community organizations that strengthen families and preserve local values.

My family: I’ve been married to the smartest, most beautiful and kindest woman in the world for nearly 32 years (sorry guys — I’m the one who got her). I’m also proud of my daughter, son and three grandchildren.

My interests and hobbies: Family first, riding my Harley, attending baseball games and being actively involved in my community.

The traits I admire in others: Integrity, service before self, and the willingness to stand up for what’s right.

People who inspired me (and how): Veterans, community leaders and everyday citizens who quietly give their time and effort to make things better without seeking recognition.

My guiding philosophy: If you see a problem, fix it. Be part of the solution, not the problem.

My advice to today’s youth: Put the phone down, step away from the computer, get out and meet people face to face, and live life while you’re young enough to enjoy it.

The Queen Creek Independent is pleased to announce Craig Barnes as the March 2026 Hometown Hero bestowed in the category of Veteran. The Queen Creek Independent along with East Valley Institute of Technology and the Queen Creek Olive Mill salute Mr. Barnes as this month's Queen Creek Hometown Heroes Awards recipient.