US Central Command bids farewell to Gen. Kurilla, welcomes Adm. Cooper as new commander

WASHINGTON

Gen. Michael Erik relinquished command Friday of the US Central Command (CENTCOM) to US Navy Adm. Brad Cooper.

A ceremony was held at the Tampa Convention Center in the state of Florida, where Pentagon officials and defense leaders from partner nations attended.

"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 Kurilla.

Kurilla assumed CENTCOM command in April 2022 and led US military efforts in the Middle East.

Cooper, who served as deputy commander prior to assuming command, said the command and the entire joint force have performed “exceptionally" well under Kurilla’s leadership.

"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," said Cooper.

Cooper will have oversight of all US military missions throughout the 21-country area of responsibility as the commander of CENTCOM, which includes the Middle East and Central Asia.