Criddle enlisted into the army on September 22, 1875 at Cincinnati OH. His listed civilian occupation was laborer. Criddle was described as 5'8", gray eyes, brown hair with a dark complexion.

On October 21, 1875, Criddle reported for duty at Ft Lincoln in the Dakota Territory. He was assigned to Company C. Company C was commanded by two time Medal of Honor recipient Capt Thomas Custer. Capt Custer was also LTC George A Custer's brother.

At the Battle of the Little Bighorn Company C was attached to LTC Custer's Battalion. Criddle was killed during the battle.

After the battle burial details found many soldiers near what had been the right flank of Company L.

Criddle's remains were not reported as being identified. It is likely that his remains were first buried where they had been found. In 1881 all known battlefield burials were re-buried in a mass grave on top of Last Stand Hill.

On June 23, 1883, Criddle's father was awared a survivor's pension.

Christopher Criddle