Team USO: Audrey Gonzalez

On a chilly, snowy winter day in Michigan, two women set out to train for one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious marathons. Before that moment, they had never met in person and knew little about each other, except for their shared passion for running, helping others, and supporting our nation’s service members. To an outsider, it might seem like just another casual afternoon run, but for Audrey Gonzalez and her fellow Team USO runner, Kailey, this training is part of a journey toward completing the iconic Boston Marathon.

Audrey joined the Army in 2016, commissioning through the ROTC program at the University of South Florida. She is currently stationed at the only active-duty Army base in New England—Natick Systems Soldier Center, Massachusetts. She serves as the Commander for the Headquarters Research and Development Detachment (HRDD) of the Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center (DEVCOM SC), one of eight research centers that falls under Army Futures Command, which, at large, is tasked with preparing and improving capabilities, technologies, and readiness for future conflicts.

As a Human Resources Officer, also known as the Adjutant General Corps, her role is one of service and leadership. For Audrey, this job goes beyond human resources support. It’s about making an impact on the people around her. This is why Audrey will be running in the 129th Boston Marathon as one of 12 runners on Team USO, on Monday, April 21, 2025. She’s fundraising and spreading awareness for an organization that has had a significant impact on her while serving in the military.

Audrey’s empathetic leadership style is what drew her to the human resources field in the first place.

“I take pride in overseeing the management of our Soldiers and making sure everything related to them is regulated properly in order to maintain overall unit effectiveness and readiness.” Her commitment to others is at the core of who she is, and it’s a driving force behind her actions both in and out of uniform.

Her academic journey reflects her dedication to service as well. Aside from her bachelor’s degree, Audrey also holds a Master of Science in Administration degree, focused on developing advanced skills in leadership, management, and organizational effectiveness—further reinforcing her focus on supporting and caring for others.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Audrey’s story is one of connection. She has seen firsthand the power of community and support systems during difficult times. It was during her time in Korea from 2017 to 2018 that she first encountered the USO, a vital resource for military personnel far from home.

“I really got to know the USO,” she explained. “Everyone used the USO Center to hang out and bond. There were computers to use, gaming systems, and it was always a fun atmosphere.”

She also served as a USO liaison for her unit from 2021 to 2024, during which her unit conducted overseas missions for 6+ months to the South and Central American regions. While on these rotations, she coordinated USO resources, including USO Holiday Care Packages, internet service, gaming systems, hygiene kits, kitchen cooking supplies, and virtual celebrity meet-and-greets from the USO Entertainment Program for over 200 Soldiers.

“Talking to Michael B. Jordan will always be a highlight for me during my rotation,” Audrey remembers. “Also, waking up to my holiday care package outside of my door on Christmas Day and watching my fellow soldiers be surprised by theirs. It really brought us holiday spirit, even though we were away from our families and friends.”

Currently stationed just outside Boston, Audrey never anticipated being selected for this new chapter.

“I’m surprised to be here,” she admits, “but I’m excited to experience Boston and its culture and take in all of this excitement and support.”

And while Audrey admits she doesn’t have a natural love for running, she’s made it a goal to complete all of the major marathons, building both physical and mental strength along the way.

“I wouldn’t say I love running, but I love challenging myself. The discipline it takes to train, the grit to push through—it’s all about growth for me,” she says with a smile.

You can help Audrey and the rest of the runners on Team USO reach their Boston Marathon goals by donating here: https://www.givengain.com/campaign/uso2025