ARLINGTON, VA., May 28, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that Space Force Sgt. Yuji Moore has been named “Guardian of the Year” for his trailblazing achievements as a military instructor and his pivotal role in advancing the training and readiness of the U.S. Space Force. This prestigious award, presented annually for the past 24 years, honors one outstanding service member from each branch who has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership. All proceeds from the Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards ceremony support a broad network of nonprofits benefiting military families and veterans.
In 2024, Sgt. Moore made history by becoming the first member of the U.S. Space Force—and the first joint-service member—to graduate from the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy. He finished at the top of his class with a 99% average across all training objectives and served as the class Platoon First Sergeant, leading and mentoring 75 joint-service members.
Moore’s exceptional academic and leadership performance continued at the Air and Space Force Military Training Instructor School, where he completed 280 hours of training and 120 curriculum objectives with a 99.8% average. His accomplishments earned him the Excellence in Instruction Award, the Commandant’s Award, and the Air Education and Training Command Distinguished Graduate designation.
Sgt. Moore applied his training experience directly to improve Space Force basic training, both for instructors and new recruits. He led four training flights, delivering 450 hours of Air Force and Space Force curriculum to 480 incoming Guardians. He also led vital combat instruction covering weapons tactics, doctrine, and Tactical Combat Casualty Care.
“Sgt. Yuji Moore’s accomplishments as a dual-trained instructor and his transformative impact on Space Force readiness exemplify a new era of excellence and joint-service integration,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation. “His innovative approach to training and his leadership across services make him an ideal recipient of our ‘Guardian of the Year’ award.”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) committed to honoring outstanding U.S. service members. Its annual Service Members of the Year Awards event has become a highlight on Washington D.C.’s calendar, attended by top congressional, military, and civilian leaders. Since 2019, the Military Times and its Foundation have donated over $25 million in cash and media support to more than 150 organizations serving military and veteran communities, such as Fisher House, Children of Fallen Patriots, TAPS, and Objective Zero.
Sponsors of the event include Fisher House Foundation, USAA, Veteran Benefits Guide, Leonardo DRS and Capital Bank. For more information on the selection process, history of the award, past winners, and other details, visit: servicemembersoftheyear.org
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Military Times Foundation
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