Medal of Honor Recipient Dakota Meyer Joins Defense Secretary's Team as Special Assistant

Dakota Meyer, a recipient of the prestigious Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during an ambush in Afghanistan in 2009, has taken on a new role as a special assistant to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. According to Pentagon officials, Meyer’s appointment marks a significant step in his ongoing commitment to military service and support for U.S. troops.

Meyer was awarded the Medal of Honor for rescuing dozens of American and allied soldiers during a fierce battle in Afghanistan's Kunar Province on September 8, 2009. Despite being under heavy fire, he made multiple trips through enemy territory to extract wounded personnel and provided crucial support that saved many lives. His actions earned him widespread recognition and the nation’s highest military decoration for valor.

After leaving active duty in 2010, Meyer remained a prominent figure advocating for veterans' rights and military families. In April of this year, he reenlisted with the Marine Reserve after more than a decade as a civilian, completing the rigorous Basic Reconnaissance Course to reaffirm his dedication to service. This latest move into a special assistant role within the Department of Defense underscores Meyer’s continued involvement in supporting U.S. defense initiatives.

In his new capacity, Meyer is classified as a special government employee while retaining his status as a Marine Reserve sergeant. Joel Valdez, acting press secretary for the Pentagon, confirmed that Meyer will serve as a civilian rather than an active duty military member in this role. The specific duties and responsibilities of his position have not yet been disclosed by the Department of Defense.

Meyer’s swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, with retired Army Sgt. Maj. Eric Geressy administering the oath. In a social media post following the event, Meyer expressed his renewed commitment to serving both current military personnel and their families, as well as the broader American public. His statement emphasized that he takes this responsibility seriously and is dedicated to performing his duties to the best of his ability.

The appointment of Dakota Meyer in such an influential position highlights the recognition of his exceptional service and ongoing dedication to supporting U.S. defense efforts. As a Medal of Honor recipient, his insights and experiences are expected to provide valuable perspectives on military operations and veteran affairs within the Department of Defense.