General Michael “Erik” Kurilla, U.S. Army (Retired), recently concluded a distinguished 38-year military career as the Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM), headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. In this role, he oversaw all U.S. military operations across 21 nations in the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia – one of the most strategically vital and complex regions in the world.
A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point with a degree in Aerospace Engineering, General Kurilla has led at every level of command within the U.S. Army’s most elite formations. His commands have included the XVIII Airborne Corps, the 82nd Airborne Division, the 75th Ranger Regiment, the 2nd Ranger Battalion, and the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry (Stryker). He also served as the Director of Operations and Assistant Commanding General for Joint Special Operations Command, Deputy Commanding General for the 1st Infantry Division, and Chief of Staff for CENTCOM.
From the streets of Mosul to the CENTCOM command center, General Kurilla’s leadership has spanned some of the most challenging operations of the modern era. Between 2004 and 2014, he deployed every year in support of the Global War on Terrorism, accumulating more than five years in combat zones. He was wounded in battle while leading his men in Mosul, continuing to command even after being shot multiple times, an act of courage that earned him the Purple Heart.
Admired as a “Soldier’s Soldier,” General Kurilla is known for his humility, empathy, and devotion to those he leads. His awards and decorations include the Combat Infantryman Badge with Star, the Master Parachutist Badge with Combat Jump Device, the Ranger Tab, and the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster. He holds an M.B.A. from Regis University and an M.S. in National Security Studies from the National War College.
Beyond his military achievements, General Kurilla remains a steadfast advocate for service members, veterans, and military families. Together with his wife, Mary Paige, he continues to champion initiatives that support the well-being of those who serve and the loved ones who stand beside them.
Today, General Kurilla brings his strategic acumen, leadership, and deep personal understanding of the Special Operations community to the Board of Directors of Operation Healing Forces, where he helps guide programs that strengthen, heal, and empower America’s most elite warriors and their families.
