During World War II, Crimmins served in the United States Navy. On March 29, 1943, Crimmins was assigned to Squadron 21 and told to report to Commander Motor Torpedo Squadron Twenty-One, Navy Yard, New York for outfitting. He then served as a PT boat commander in the Pacific where he was awarded a Silver Star. At the time of the award he was a Lieutenant (junior grade). Crimmins also was awarded a Presidential Citation and 3 battle stars. Crimmins was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame on August 1, 1975.