Gen. Kurilla, who took command in April 2022, oversaw U.S. military efforts in the Middle East with a focus on regional stability and the enduring defeat of ISIS. His tenure included the planning and execution of more than 15 major combined combat operations, among them Operations Rough Rider and Midnight Hammer.
“I know that under the leadership of Adm. Brad Cooper, with the support of the Defense Department and Joint Staff, the counsel and contributions of our allies and partners, and support of our headquarters and component teams, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coastguardsmen, and Guardians of Central Command who serve this nation on the front lines of freedom will always succeed,” said Gen. Kurilla. “It has been the honor of my life to have been their commander.”
Adm. Cooper, a 1989 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a master’s degree in strategic intelligence, previously served as CENTCOM deputy commander. In his new role, he will oversee U.S. military missions across 21 countries spanning the Middle East and Central Asia.
“U.S. Central Command and the entire joint force have performed exceptionally well under the leadership of Gen. Kurilla, helping to bolster partnerships, increase lethality of U.S. forces, and defend Americans and civilians abroad,” said Adm. Cooper. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead America’s sons and daughters as we support the important mission of enhancing regional security and stability in the Central Command region.”
