2026 USO Guardian of the Year: STARCOM instructor helps shape next generation of Guardians

Published May 13, 2026
By Brandon Kalloo Sanes
Space Training and Readiness Command

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas (AFNS) -- For many enlisted Guardians, the Space Force journey begins at Basic Military Training, where military training instructors help transform civilians into members of the armed forces and build the foundation they will carry throughout their careers.

For many trainees, that experience begins with Master Sgt. David Gudgeon, a military training instructor assigned to Space Training and Readiness Command’s Space Delta 1. Earlier this year, the USO named Gudgeon the 2026 Guardian of the Year, recognizing his impact on trainees and his response during multiple medical emergencies at Basic Military Training.

Uniformed personnel at ceremony — Space Force Master Sgt. David Gudgeon, right, a military training instructor assigned to Space Training and Readiness Command’s Delta 1, stands on stage April 16, 2026, during the 2026 United Service Organizations Gala at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. Gudgeon was recognized as the 2026 USO Guardian of the Year for his leadership, mentorship and actions during multiple medical emergencies at Basic Military Training. (Courtesy photo)

Gudgeon arrived at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in 2023 and began leading trainees through Basic Military Training the following year after completing the United States Drill Sergeant Academy and Air Force Military Training Instructor School. To date, he’s led five flights and helped train approximately 300 future Guardians before moving into instructor leadership roles.

As an MTI, Gudgeon trains and mentors Guardians throughout the 7.5-week course, leading physical training, teaching drill and ceremony and reinforcing the standards expected of military service.

“Every day is different,” Gudgeon said. “It’s your responsibility to help each trainee transition from civilian to a member of the United States armed forces.”

Gudgeon said he volunteered to become an MTI because he wanted greater opportunities to lead and mentor junior service members.

“In previous assignments I found immense gratification working with new members and setting them up for success in the force,” he said. “Laying the foundation for the next generation is exciting.”

Throughout training, Gudgeon said he focuses on helping trainees build habits and perspectives they can carry into the rest of their careers.

“Having a strong initiative will take you farther than raw talent or skills,” Gudgeon said. “Accountability is more than taking credit for a good or bad outcome. It is the foundation for the buy-in each and every one of them could have for follow-on assignments or missions.”

He said consistency remains one of the most difficult parts of the job.

“This job is a grind and maintaining your presence, proficiency and professionalism is always a challenge,” Gudgeon said. “Each cycle you must adjust your approach to ensure it’s successful for this group of individuals.”

The USO recognized Gudgeon in part for his actions during two separate medical emergencies involving trainees. During one incident in a dining facility, Gudgeon responded after identifying a trainee choking.