During this first quarter of the 21st Century, America’s military has been called to operate in the Middle East and surrounding region more than any other location in the world. United States Central Command (CENTCOM), the unified command of the Department of Defense, is responsible for our nation’s security interests across this volatile part of the world. During this time countless Americans have answered the call to serve, knowing their likely destination would be this volatile region. Fellow Minnesotan, General Michael E. Kurilla, spent every year from 2004-2014 in this region leading conventional and special operations forces in the Central Command Area of Responsibility, and in April of 2022, General Kurilla became the 15th Commander of CENTCOM.
A native of Elk River, Minnesota, General Kurilla commissioned into the Infantry from the United States Military Academy, West Point in 1988. He holds a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the United States Military Academy, West Point; an M.B.A from Regis University; and a M.S. in National Security Studies from the National War College. General Kurilla has led Airborne, Mechanized, Stryker, Ranger and Joint Special Operations units during combat and operational deployments. He has served as the Director of Operations and Assistant Commanding General for Joint Special Operations Command, Deputy Commanding General for the 1st Infantry Division, Joint Staff Deputy Director for Special Operations and Counter-Terrorism, and Chief of Staff for U.S. Central Command.
General Kurilla’s awards and decorations include the Combat Infantryman Badge with Star, Master Parachutist Badge with Combat Jump Device, Ranger Tab, and the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster.
It is a rare treat to hear from the acting CENTCOM Commander, and MMAF is honored to have this fellow Minnesotan as keynote. Additionally, MMAF continues its tradition of having a grant recipient share their story and Major Joel Rauenhorst of Easton, Minnesota will share his. Now retired from the Marine Corps, Major Rauenhorst was a Naval Aviator all over the world.
Business Attire – 6:00pm Reception – 7:00pm Dinner and Program
RSVP by October 9, 2024.
To date, MMAF has provided more than $13.4 million in grants to over 19,850 Minnesota service members. With your support at this event, we can continue making a difference in the lives of our Minnesota troops and their families. Sit Investment Associates, Inc. is underwriting this event, therefore 100% of funds raised will go directly to Minnesota service members.
