General Andrew Poppas is an iconic figure in modern American military leadership – and a proud Greek of the diaspora. With Greek roots and a career spanning over four decades, he has been at the forefront of critical missions and strategic decisions in the United States. In 2022, he assumed command of the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM), the largest operational formation of the U.S. Army, with responsibility for more than 750,000 soldiers and reservists.
From a military family – with Greek roots
Andrew Poppas grew up in Kentucky in a military family, but he never forgot his Greek roots, which he publicly honors. He often refers to the values he received from his Greek background: family, courage, philanthropy and commitment to the mission. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1988 and served in numerous deployments around the world, from Europe to the Middle East and Korea, gaining critical experience in wars, crises and strategic command.
A leader on the most critical fronts
During the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, General Poppas served in staff and operational positions, including Special Operations Command. He served as the Chief of Staff of Central Command (CENTCOM) and, later, as Chief of the Joint Staff at the Pentagon. In 2022, by order of the Secretary of Defense and the President of the United States, he was placed at the helm of FORSCOM. In this position, he coordinates the readiness and deployment of troops for operations around the world, maintaining the operational superiority of the U.S. Army.
Greece at the heart of the Pentagon
Poppas has been repeatedly honored for his service, and at every opportunity he emphasizes his love for his Greek heritage. He has been in contact with expatriate organizations on more than a few occasions and has accepted honors from the Greek community in the United States. His presence in such a high military post is a source of pride for Greeks everywhere, proving that Greeks of the diaspora continue to excel and lead, even in the most demanding and critical areas of the international scene.
Reliability, honour, commitment – the weapons of Andrew Poppas
At a time when global stability is being tested, Andrew Poppas stands out as an example of principled leadership. He tackles every mission with a strategic mind and a sense of duty, remaining true to his roots. His career is proof that the Greek ideals of honour and bravery can travel and serve consistently in the highest offices of the international community.
