The Thermopylae Forum 2026 strengthens its international footprint with the participation of two personalities who served in top positions of responsibility in the United States: Generals Michael Erik Kurilla and Andrew Poppas.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 16 at the Thermopylae Historical Information Center, aspiring to be a point of substantive dialogue, international extroversion and high symbolism.

The presence of the two American Generals lends particular weight to the Forum and highlights the timeless message of Thermopylae not as a symbol of conflict, but as a point of reference for leadership, responsibility, resilience and the power of decisions in critical moments.

Michael Erik Kurilla, a West Point graduate and former Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), has many years of experience in positions of high responsibility. During his career, he served in important formations of the US Army, including the 75th Ranger Regiment, the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps, assuming critical roles in command and strategic planning.

Andrew Poppas, former Commander of the United States Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and a personality of the Greek diaspora, also served in top positions of responsibility, focusing on the readiness, organization and coordination of large formations of the US Army.

Their participation in the Thermopylae Forum 2026 strengthens the international character of the event and opens a substantial dialogue around values ​​that remain relevant: responsibility, a conscious attitude, resilience and the power of decisions in critical moments.

Thermopylae Forum 2026 is organized with the honorary collaboration of the Holy Metropolis of Phthiotis, the support of the Region of Central Greece and the Municipality of Lamia.

Admission is free.