HDG Team
Hetairoi Defense Group founders David Bucsit and Michael Petrasso are veterans and industry experts in the fields of executive protection and firearms/self-defense training, with more than 4 decades of combined experience in various arenas across these disciplines. Throughout their service to many high-profile clients on the protection front and countless hours of refining the skills of their students on the range and beyond, they continue to uphold the highest standards of quality and service. Remaining completely dedicated to their craft and the satisfaction of their clients.
David Bucsit: CEO - US Navy Veteran, San Diego PD (Ret.), Executive Protection Agent, Firearms Instructor
David served as a Corpsman (Combat Medic) in the Navy and Marine Corps with units such as, SEAL Team 1, EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) Mobile Unit 7, Marine 1st Force Recon and the Navy Parachute Team “The Leap Frogs”. Post military service, David continued his duty as a San Diego Police Officer where he served in various functions of Law Enforcement. From patrol, investigations and tactical response teams, David gained a keen experience in his career. He then served with the Joint Terrorism Task Force until his retirement. David took his knowledge and experience from the military and law enforcement and became a private contractor and executive protection agent. David ensured the safety and well-being for numerous high net-worth individuals throughout the United States and abroad. As a private contractor, David trained law enforcement officers and military special forces all over the world. On the home front, David continued training and instructing, but this time more focused on civilians and empowering them with knowledge to defend themselves and their families.
David is now focused on making HDG a thriving enterprise that is committed to the utmost in quality of customer care and employee satisfaction.
Michael Petrasso: President -
United States Marine Corps Veteran, Executive Protection Agent, Firearms Instructor
Michael served as an infantryman in the Marine Corps with 1st Battalion 9th Marines and 1st Battalion 4th Marines. A participant in Occupation Enduring Freedom, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Having served in every role of a Marine Rifle Squad, small unit leader, combat lifesaver, as well as many other infantry certifications. Michael then entered into the world of executive protection - post service - with large and small firms alike. Spending time in both the East and West Coast markets and working in public areas, as well as residential and corporate posts. Throughout this time he also was a firearms instructor in the civilian sector amassing endless hours of training time with students both in classes and private lessons. These sessions ranged from beginner shooters to advanced tactical training and CCW technique.
Now focused on growing a new enterprise committed to the utmost in quality of customer care and employee satisfaction, Michael has set out to forge a new path and venture into the realm of business ownership to "do things the right way" and create an ecosystem of camaraderie, success, trust, and dedication.
Prince Wellington: Chief Operating Officer -
United States Navy Veteran, Firearms Instructor
Prince served 14 years in the United States Navy, building a diverse and highly specialized background in weapons systems and combat training. He spent 9 years in the Submarine Service as a Torpedoman and Weapons Specialist, becoming a subject matter expert in small arms. Transitioning to the Riverine community for 5 years, he further expanded his expertise as a weapons and combat instructor, training personnel in small arms and crew-served machine gun platforms.
Throughout his military career he led and managed gun range training operations for over 11 years, supporting both East and West Coast commands as well as deployments across the Western Pacific. His ability to design, implement, and execute high-level training programs established him as a trusted leader and instructor within the Navy.
Following his time in service, he continued his passion for instruction as a private weapons instructor in the civilian sector before transitioning into his current role as a federal contractor. He has performed successful Corporate and Private security operations, and for the past 4.5 years, he has trained Army, Marine Corps, and Navy personnel in weapons handling, combat tactics, and close-quarters combat (CQC), bringing real-world experience and practical application to every session.
Prince is committed to fostering an ego-free training environment and emphasizes adaptability, discipline, and a willingness to learn. His passion lies in developing others, enhancing skillsets, and ensuring those he trains are prepared to perform when it matters most.