Metlife Financial Services

John Cranston joined First Command Financial Services as a Financial Advisor in December 2021, following a 28-year career in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of Captain. John understands the challenges and opportunities associated with life in the military and is committed to helping service members and their families get their financial lives squared away. John has a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Middlesex University and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from Air War College. He also graduated from The Citadel in 1993. He holds Series 66 and Series 7 securities licenses plus life and health insurance licenses in VA, MD, DC, WV, and CT. John is committed to coaching clients to pursue their financial goals and lifetime dreams by bringing sound financial knowledge and trustworthy advice to a lasting relationship with each individual and family he serves. Active in his community, John is a member of the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce. First Command Financial Services was founded in 1958 by a retired Air Force officer for the specific purpose of improving the financial well-being of military professionals and their families. Today, more than 500 First Command Financial Advisors across the country and abroad, many of whom also served, are committed to the company’s Mission of “Coaching those who serve in their pursuit of financial security.”

As a First Command Financial Advisor, I am committed to helping clients consistently make the smart, informed financial decisions that are essential to the pursuit of long-term financial security. I chose this profession because I believe it gives me the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of the people I work with. Experience has taught me that the biggest obstacle to financial security for most people is their own behavior. That’s why I seek to form trusting, long term relationships with clients, serving as their personal financial coach by: 1. Helping them set specific and meaningful goals that are aligned with their values 2. Providing them with a comprehensive, personalized plan for effectively pursuing their goals 3. Encouraging and motivating them to adopt and consistently practice the productive financial behaviors necessary to successfully execute their plan 4. Making strategic adjustments in their plan as their circumstances and goals evolve over time I don’t believe in shortcuts to financial security. I advocate time-tested financial principles including prudent and responsible debt management, disciplined saving and investing and a thoughtful insurance strategy for managing financial risk. And as an Investment Advisor Representative (IAR), I am held to a fiduciary standard, required in all cases to act in the clients’ best interests. About First Command First Command was founded in 1958 by a retired Air Force officer intent on improving the financial well-being of service members and their families. Today, more than 500 First Command Financial Advisors across the country and abroad are committed to fulfilling the company’s Mission of “Coaching those who serve in their pursuit of financial security”.

First Command's Financial Advisors in Manassas, VA are committed to serving our Nation's military families in their pursuit of financial security. Keeping you financially squared away wherever life takes you.