Following the 9/11 attacks, Eli Crane answered the call to serve by enlisting in the Navy, where he became a member of SEAL Team 3. Over 13 years of service, he completed five wartime deployments—three to Iraq—dedicating himself to defending America’s freedom, way of life and Constitution.
After transitioning to civilian life in 2014, Crane and his wife, Jen, founded Bottle Breacher, a U.S.-based company that created patriotic-themed bottle openers crafted from once-fired, decommissioned .50 caliber ammunition. Their business was featured on Shark Tank, securing investments from Kevin O’Leary and Mark Cuban. As the company flourished, they expanded their product line to include a variety of patriotic gifts while creating jobs and supporting veterans nationwide. In 2022, the Cranes sold the business to focus on new endeavors including Eli running for Congress. He began his first term in January of 2023. In November of 2024, Rep. Crane was re-elected to Congress to serve in the House of Representatives, serving the people of Arizona.
Despite his many achievements, Rep. Crane’s most important mission remains raising his two daughters. Proud to be raising his family in Arizona, he is dedicated to securing a brighter future for them and future generations.
My journey with the American Soldier Network has blessed me with incredible friendships, and Rep. Crane is one of them. It was an honor to feature him in this American Heroes column. Highlighting the veterans who continue to serve is always a privilege, and I hope you enjoy this Q&A with Rep. Crane.
How did you decide to enter the military and then the SEALs?
While growing up in Yuma, Arizona, I was introduced to some Marines and immediately had a great deal of respect for them. I started reading as much as I could [about] different branches and special operations groups, and I found the SEAL teams fascinating. Specifically, I liked the water and read repeatedly that it was the toughest training in the Department of Defense. Given the challenge, I wanted to test myself to see if I had what it takes. At the start of my senior year of college, the 9/11 terrorist attacks took place. Like thousands of patriotic Americans, I felt a duty to respond, so I dropped out of the University of Arizona one week later to enlist in the U.S. Navy.
What skills did you take from your military service into the civilian world?
One of the most important skills I learned is attention to detail. That was routinely stressed to us in the service. Another takeaway is that you are nothing by yourself. In order to be successful, you have to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you and have different skill sets. You also need to be humble enough to listen to others if you want to achieve anything great.
After your military career, what were your first career goals?
After leaving the military, my primary goal was to provide for my family. On the professional side, my goal was to grow the most successful, Made in the USA, veteran-owned business in the country.
When did you decide a run for Congress was in your future?
I’m a firm believer that evil triumphs when good men do nothing, and weak men create hard times. As I watched the downward trajectory of America’s culture, finances and morals, I wanted to get engaged instead of being on the sidelines. While running my business, I was approached by a political consultant who asked me to consider running for Congress. I prayed about this with my wife, and we decided that was what we thought God was calling us to do.
What are some of your biggest challenges serving in Congress, and how has your military career prepared you?
In Congress, it takes a great deal of time to get anything accomplished. It’s also extremely challenging to change the way Washington works. In the military, I learned resilience, discipline and patience, which helps with playing the long game and overcoming adversity.
We face a huge task in battling the veteran/military suicide epidemic. Do you have any thoughts on this? Do you have any advice for veterans who are struggling?
Over the past few decades, America has consistently been at war. The byproduct of these conflicts inflicted pain on many veterans.
Furthermore, our government routinely fails to prioritize the needs of our troops once they return home. Some of these issues can be handled through the VA, but I believe veteran nonprofits play a major role in aiding veterans and getting them the help they need. I also believe that having strong faith can help address these challenges.
Is there anything else you want to add?
On the topic of lessons learned, the military changed my perspective on dealing with adversity. After going through the toughest training in the Department of Defense, where they constantly try to break you, it changes the way you view obstacles in life. It makes some of the things I’ve done in the private sector a lot easier because your baseline is reset for what you think is difficult.
Service, I believe, is a calling—one that takes many forms. In my opinion, military service is the highest among them. For nearly 25 years, I have dedicated myself to serving the military and veteran community. I can say without hesitation that these men and women are among the finest who walk among us.
Many veterans continue their service in new ways after hanging up their uniforms, and Rep. Crane is a prime example of this. Our country needs more veterans to step up and run for office at every level—local, state and federal. Those who have worn the flag on their arm and fought for this nation carry a unique perspective and an unshakable conviction into public service.
I want to extend my gratitude to Rep. Crane for taking the time out of his demanding schedule for this interview and, more importantly, for his continued service. A heartfelt thank you to all veterans who continue to serve in government—you are making a difference.
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
