WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dakota Meyer, a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for heroism during the Afghanistan War, has reenlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves after a 15-year break in military service.
Meyer, 35, originally served on active duty from 2006 to 2010, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan. He gained national recognition for his actions on September 8, 2009, during a fierce battle in the Ganjgal Valley in eastern Afghanistan.
Under heavy enemy fire, Meyer repeatedly entered the kill zone to evacuate wounded comrades and recover the fallen, actions that led to him receiving the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama in 2011. He was the first living Marine in 38 years to receive the nation’s highest military award.
His reenlistment comes as a renewed commitment to service, this time in a reserve capacity, allowing him to continue contributing to the Marine Corps while maintaining his civilian career.
Since leaving active duty, Meyer has authored a memoir, Into the Fire: A Firsthand Account of the Most Extraordinary Battle in the Afghan War, and has worked as a motivational speaker.
He also engaged in various business ventures focused on supporting veterans and active-duty service members.
In returning to the Marine Corps Reserves, Meyer joins a force designed to bolster the Marine Corps’ readiness and support both domestic and international missions. His reenlistment has been met with praise from veterans’ organizations and military leaders, who cite his combat experience, leadership, and advocacy as valuable assets to the Corps.
Meyer has frequently credited the Marine Corps with shaping his character and guiding his life’s direction. His decision to reenlist underscores a continued dedication to the values of honor, courage, and commitment that define Marine service.
The Marine Corps has not disclosed the unit to which Meyer will be assigned, but officials confirmed that he will serve in a reserve role in line with his previous rank and qualifications.