John E. Craps

Dr. John E. Craps is actively engaged in the field of Germanic Languages and Literatures at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA. With a distinguished career that spans both academia and national service, Dr. Craps brings a unique perspective to his teaching and research. His tenure as a Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation and as a member of the Army Counter-Intelligence Corps during World War II has enriched his understanding of historical and cultural contexts, which he integrates into his academic pursuits. Before and after his wartime service, Dr. Craps dedicated himself to the study and teaching of German at the University of Florida. His experiences during the war, including his participation in the Greenbrier Hotel Mission—a clandestine operation—have provided him with invaluable insights into the complexities of international relations and intelligence work. These experiences have informed his approach to teaching, allowing him to offer students a nuanced understanding of Germanic studies. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Craps has contributed significantly to the field of military intelligence history. He played a pivotal role in the collection and preservation of the Roy L. Morgan Papers, an archive that holds critical military intelligence documents. This work not only underscores his commitment to preserving historical records but also highlights his expertise in the analysis and interpretation of intelligence data. Dr. Craps's multifaceted career reflects his dedication to both his country and his academic discipline. His unique blend of practical experience and scholarly knowledge makes him a valuable asset to the University of Virginia, where he continues to inspire and educate the next generation of scholars in Germanic Languages and Literatures.