Minnesotans’ Military Appreciation Fund is excited to announce that General (Retired) Michael E. Kurilla will keynote the 2025 Annual Dinner. General Kurilla became the 15th commander of U.S. CENTCOM in April 2022 and recently relinquished command on August 8, 2025. His keynote address via livestream during MMAF’s 2024 dinner was one of the most candid and informative presentations the MMAF audience has ever received, and we are excited that he will join in person this year with even more freedom to speak candidly post active duty.
During his time as CENTCOM Commander, General Kurilla led U.S. military operations in the Middle East maintaining stability and security in the region along with the enduring defeat of ISIS. He led the planning and execution of over 15 combined combat operations, most recently Operation Rough Rider, targeting Houthis in Yemen in March and April. In June, he oversaw Operation Midnight Hammer, which targeted the Iranian nuclear facilities of Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan and involved more than 125 U.S. aircraft, including B2 Stealth Bombers and a guided missile submarine. The attack is credited with destroying the facilities and severely damaging Iran’s nuclear program.
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.
To date, MMAF has provided more than $13.6 million in grants to over 20,000 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. 100% of the money raised will go directly to Minnesota service members and their families.
6:00 PM Reception
7:00 PM Dinner and Program
Please RSVP by October 10, 2025
Keep checking thankmntroops.org for additional updates on the event.
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