Dakota Meyer, Marine Medal of Honor Recipient, Says He’s No Hero
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President Obama presented former Marine Dakota Meyer with the Medal of Honor at the White House today, making Meyer the first living Marine to receive the Medal of Honor for heroism in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The former Marine sergeant, who shared a beer with the president at the White House Wednesday, insists he is not a hero for repeatedly rushing into heavy enemy fire in an attempt to rescue four missing U.S. servicemembers pinned down in an intense hours-long ambush in eastern Afghanistan. Fighting through a piece of shrapnel that had injured his arm, Meyer later reached the four only to find that they had died in the fighting.
At today’s ceremony President Obama called it “fitting” that the ceremony should take place the same week as the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that led to the war in Afghanistan.
Obama described the 23 year old Meyer as representing “the best of a generation that has served with distinction through a decade of war.”
“You did your duty above and beyond, and you kept the faith with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps you love,” said Obama.
Obama called Meyer “one of the most down to earth guys that you will ever meet”. He noted that when the White House contacted him to arrange the President’s phone call to inform him he was to receive the award he asked that it be scheduled for his lunch hour from his construction job because he said, “if I don’t work, I don’t get paid.”
“I do appreciate, Dakota, you taking my call,” joked President Obama.
Meyer becomes the tenth recipient of the nation’s highest award for valor in those conflicts; all but two have been presented posthumously. Army soldiers Staff Sgt. Salvatore Giunta and Sgt. First Class Leroy Petry are the only other living recipients of the award.
On September 8, 2009, Meyer was one of 13 American military trainers embedded with a unit of 80 Afghan soldiers headed for a routine meeting with local elders in the village of Ganjgal, located in a valley along the border with Pakistan.
Four trainers at the front of the U.S.-Afghan force were immediately trapped by the heavy enemy fire believed to be coming from as many as 150 Taliban fighters.
Positioned in a rear position when the ambush began, Meyer and other members of his unit disobeyed orders to remain in place and used a Humvee to rush into the kill zone to try and rescue the four trapped at the head of their column.
Manning the the Humvee’s turret gun killed at least eight insurgents Meyer rescued 36 Afghan and American troops in his first four attempts to reach the four trapped trainers. He and his team members finally broke through to their position on the fifth attempt and moved on foot through a hail of gunfire only to find they had been killed in the fighting. Meyer then retrieved their remains.
Killed in the fighting were Marine 1st Lt. Michael Johnson, Marine Staff Sgt. Aaron Kenefick, Marine Gunnery Sgt. Edwin Johnson, and Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class James Layton, as well as eight Afghan soldiers and an interpreter. Army Sgt 1st Class Kenneth Westbrook died a month later from wounds he had receieved in the battle.
In a measure of the heroism displayed by U.S. forces that day, two of Meyer’s fellow Marines, Capt. Ademola Fabayo and Staff Sgt. Juan Rodriguez-Chavez, have each received the Navy Cross, the service’s second-highest award for valor.
In an interview with ABC’s Bob Woodruff airing tonight on ABC’s “World News with Diane Sawyer,” Meyer says that if he was faced with the same situation again, “I would do it a hundred times” though he would change only one thing: ”I wish I could have kept them alive.”
He insists he is not a hero, but was only doing “what Marines do…I’m the furthest thing from a hero,” he says, “if this is what it feels like to be a hero you can have it.” He adds, “What gives me the right to be standing here today and not their kids? I feel like I failed them and I failed their families.”
Meyer wonders if the outcome might have been different if ”I had just done it on the first time on my instinct, maybe I could of got in there, made a difference, but like I said, you can ‘what if it’ to the max.”
He says he wasn’t counting how many lives he saved that day in Ganjgal. “I couldn’t tell you,” he says. “I see numbers come out all the time, there, three or four sets of numbers , but I don’t think numbers really matter.”
Meyer says that when he and Rodriguez-Chavez went into the valley that day, “I wasn’t really thinking I could die…I can’t speak for him, but I know, I never thought I was going to come out.”
A major motivator for his repeated attempts that day was an early radio transmission from the four that led him to believe they were still alive pinned down in a house “waiting for us to get them out.”
“The only thing I was focused on was getting those guys out of there,” says Meyer.
But when he reached them, “I knew they were dead, but you just want to wish there is something, something still going that you can hopefully try to at least save one of them.”
Meyer wears bracelets with the names of the four Americans killed in Ganjgal that day and feels some guilt that he survived the battle. “I guess what’s stuck in my mind is you either get guys out alive or you die trying, if you didn’t die trying, you didn’t try hard enough.”
Now living on his grandparents’ farm in rural Kentucky, Meyer says that he would return to active duty “in a heartbeat” if he could be promised a return to combat “fighting with Marines.”
Meyer says that he wants the award, but that he’s not receiving the medal just for himself, but on behalf of all Marines.
There is a dark side to the battle at Ganjgal as two Army officers later received reprimands for being “inadequate and ineffective” in not responding to requests from team members for additional artillery and air support during the battle.
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Posted by: Dave Templeton | September 15, 2011, 12:20 pm 12:20 pm
As with other living Medal of Honor winners, he and other recipients almost to a person say they are not heros, but those that fell around them are. We the citizenry honor your actions with the medal and are proud that you and your compatriots have responded to our country’s calling.
Posted by: John | September 15, 2011, 12:52 pm 12:52 pm
Dakota Meyer you are a hero! not once in my life and from knowing people that have served from WW II on have I ever heard one say they were a hero but every one of them has been! they went when called and they did there best just like you . Yes other may have done the same but this time it was you because you were there not them and you reacted with out thinking of your own self first only them and there life’s so you put them ahead of your self. No gift is greater then when a man will lay down his life for another man. That is just what you did and that is what makes you a hero of heroes! Yes some times you can not do every thing you wish you could but look at this. How many families now do have there military person with them because of you? How many kids will have that father now for more years because of you? No you did not fail at all but you succeeded in saving many families and keeping them whole including your own! So hold your head high and know in your heart you’re the best of the best even if you, your self do not want to believe it we all do! That is why you have been honored and now you join a branch of the very few, the heroes of the heroes!
Posted by: Marty | September 15, 2011, 12:59 pm 12:59 pm
Shame on you Obama for DENYING others that have long been standing in FORMATION waiting disposition of their military case… even though many of these other cases they may not rise to this level of valor they deserve their day of reconcile. It’s prejudicism, bias, it’s politically motivated, nothing but political theater to ignore those others whose CASE History begs a hand shake, a day in the sun, a warm thank you, but it’s a fact there’s too much baggage for you to seriously consider addressing given the election cycle is upon you… Mr. President… you’re an opportunist that doesn’t want to do the heavy lifting associated with these others who were INJURED as they too rose to the occasion to rescued their fellow comrades… SHAME ON YOU, SHAME ON YOU mr. president, SHAME ON YOU for putting votes before this issue. Taxpayers need to Know just how Selective you are in order to PROTECT your own personal IMAGE of yourself… votes are your bottomline, it’s no wonder our economy continues to suffer major setbacks! I’d be embarrassed if the president put me in front of this long line of military people that have had to endure the burden of their own service that cost them dearly during their time in uniform. These leaders seem to think that these other soldiers that have had difficulty afterwards in their lives are undeserving, far from it mr. president. Why is it every politician would rather ran from those other candidates that have a blemished civilian record afterwards… it’s hasn’t been easy for many of these special people to make this transition through the remainder of their life after being injured during those times in question… SHAME ON YOU Mr. President for cosmectically jumping the Chain of Command for political reasons and shame on Senator Patty Murray for Standing Still on a similar matter with her being on so many Military Commissions that are suppose to help litigate and support military service personnel get through legitiment legal Issues that are Road Blocked by Congressional Decree. It’s not a news worthy story when the battle and the shooters are clearly friendly and the soldier in uniform that intercedes on anothers behalf becomes the victim carrying out his duty and obligation to protect a fellow soldier in need! This Election campaign period that Obama’s engaged in makes this Award somewhat hollow considering the Presidents use of his office to garner votes in this election period. This is a dereliction of Duty to take advantage of this Marine during these falling poll numbers… shame on you.
Posted by: Robert T. Griffin | September 15, 2011, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm
Dakota Meyer, you are a hero because you risked your life to try to save those men and did save 12 Afghani soldiers. They are alive because of your actions. No one could ask more of you than to put your life at such peril.
Thank you for your service to our country.
Posted by: Lydia | September 15, 2011, 3:00 pm 3:00 pm
Marty, I doubt the President is going to read this blog, so maybe you should…I don’t know, write a letter or something. Better yet, never disrespect a national hero by twisting their accomplishments for political ideology rants.
This Marine (and many others that I served with) have done amazing things, risking their lives for all of our country. Their service is commendable, their actions during that service is in keeping with the highest traditions of our Corps, and of the American military as a whole. Yet we have seen record low numbers of our nations highest award. To give Sgt Meyer the Medal of Honor is not mere grandstanding- it is the least we can do.
We should honor the fallen by realizing that they died for all of us. I didn’t join to protect Republicans. I didn’t join to protect those of my faith. I joined to protect my country- all of it. This ridiculous anger and pedantic insults is pointless, and the fact that you put it on a story about a true hero says much about your character. You chose to take a story about a hero and politicize it. You should be ashamed.
Posted by: Alex | September 15, 2011, 3:08 pm 3:08 pm
Alex, that crazy long winded rant was by Robert. Bob, get a hold of yourself…it is always election season so when could he have awarded this brave man? Don’t place all blame or shame on the president, he is not the be all end all.
People like you constantly place the blame on the president when things get bad, but never praise for the good.
Posted by: Dustin | September 15, 2011, 4:24 pm 4:24 pm
Actually, they are the only three living Medal of Honor recipients in this current conflict. There are many living recipients of the Medal of Honor in other conflicts, two are living in the Leavenworth, KS area right now. MOH recipients may not see themselves as heroes, but their presence is very encouraging to active duty service members, military children, aspiring military, and especially families of fallen soldiers. I know our local Gold Star mothers group (mothers who have lost soldiers killed in action) is always happy to have MOH recipients participate in their ceremonies, I think it just makes them feel better having someone like that around.
Posted by: Melissa Bower | September 15, 2011, 4:28 pm 4:28 pm
Inspiring story. What a brave man.
Posted by: jan | September 15, 2011, 4:34 pm 4:34 pm
“I do appreciate, Dakota, you taking my call,” joked President Obama….. Obama has no clue what it means to have to work and NOT get paid if you don’t. Over the past 2 years Obama has done everything instead of trying to get people back to work. He spent what? a Year? passing a HC bill that in the end is not going to do anything. During that time.. he could of spent time getting jobs rolling and people back to earth. Evidently with his little smart ass remark, and his great job starting accomplishments since he has been in office, he must not think anyone should work.. and your ass better jump when he wants to call you. AND YES…….. I voted for this idiot.
Posted by: ohnooooooooooooooooo | September 15, 2011, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm
This aw shucks stuff get’s old at times. Fine, no one is a hero. Just take the medal and say thank you. It’s really not about you anyway. It’s about the people giving the medal and showing appreciation for what you did. However you feel, just take the medal and be done with it.
Posted by: Thomas | September 15, 2011, 8:36 pm 8:36 pm
Marty – well, at least you don’t squander any opportunity to jump on obama whether it’s appropriate or not. I hope they come up with a medication soon.
Posted by: Thomas | September 15, 2011, 8:38 pm 8:38 pm
ohnoooooooooooooooo, mere looking at your name shows the fact that you are a coward and you are scared as hell. You have been living your life in the dark…You want to make a change, be bold! Cowards like you hide in the dark and insult their president at every opportunity. Give honor to whom honor is due! At least, that is what the topic is all about and not referring to your president as an Idiot when you are a bigger IDIOT!
Posted by: Wiinnermann | September 15, 2011, 10:16 pm 10:16 pm
Sergeant Meyer,
Coming from someone who had to carry his friend to a helipad while the life pumped out of him, THANKS!!!
Not a hero??? Brother, the day you walked across the parade deck as a Marine you were more of a hero then most of the people I know.
Yes, you are correct, you were only doing your job. That is what Marines do. Again you ever here anybody say “Holy crap, we are in trouble, better send in the Coast guard, or Navy, or Air Force?? No, I give all the props to anybody over there right now, but there is a reason they say “Send in the Marines!!” First one in and last one out is not a decision we are allowed to make, it is a life giving choice.
Put a sample of our Blood under a microscope and you will see the great EGA’s flowing. Some more then others, meaning you. remember brother, the President of the United States of America will now Salute you, FOR GOOD REASON.
I know who to call the next time the fit hits the shan.
All you other Jarheads out there look to your left and to the right, and hope you see this Marines face somewhere in the crowd.
You are truly a HERO brother.
Sgt. Dakota Meyer Please allow me to salute you, and I can guarantee I will not be the last.
Not ripping on our President, but remember we salute the Position not the Man.
I see that CMH coming my way I will first salute Medal and Hug the man!!! Uniform or not.
Gunny
Posted by: Keli Ange MGySgt (retired) | September 15, 2011, 10:25 pm 10:25 pm
Robert T Griffin, You should go get a live! Stop deceiving yourself in trying to be something you are not…You do not have the interest of the American people, else you should not be talking about their leader in this manner…Find a place for yourself…Get busy…take care of your home first…faceless non-entity
Posted by: Wiinnermann | September 15, 2011, 10:29 pm 10:29 pm
What a tremendous act by Sgt. Dakota Meyer in saving the lives of his fellow Marines! He is to be honored and I am glad for his recognition. However, there would be better ways to celebrate than with beer. Alcohol (and remember, serving by serving, beer is just as strong as whisky) has been named and retains its position as the Number One Drug Problem in America.
Posted by: Paul | September 16, 2011, 1:16 pm 1:16 pm
well at least this medal seems clear of questionable circumstance. Not sure it truly represents the clear thinking and self sacrifice as fully as normal nor the seemingly hopeless odds typical of medal. But it is good that we have a living recipient. Too few of those to even attempt teach the values to others directly.
Posted by: well-duh | September 17, 2011, 3:34 am 3:34 am
Not to diminish the medal given but I do not see the clear division differentiating this action from a normal silver or bronze star. Yes I have heard the gushing sentiments that every soldier who sees action should be given medal of honor simply for being there. Frankly such sickly sweet pseudo-patriotism diminishes all medals regardless of good intentions and even among career military shows a lack of appreciation for the intent of various levels of medals.
I also recognize that medals are sometimes given and accepted as token symbols to make up for all the times the average soldier goes unappreciated by upper brass, politicians and the even the CinC. However, I think that use of medals is callus laziness on the part of both parties – disrespect heaped on disrespect along the line of “give me two seconds to make it all up to you before I go back to business as usual”.
Nevertheless this young man deserves praise as his behavior is at least bronze star level and according to Congress the higher level of a Medal of Honor performance. May he receive the respect the Medal should be accorded and may his life easily meet the standards expected of such an honor.
Posted by: well-duh | September 17, 2011, 3:54 am 3:54 am
No matter where this man goes for the rest of his life, he will be saluted. Whether that be from a traditional hand salute, a handshake, or even a ‘nod’….And for good reason! Putting aside all the rhetoric, politics, opinions, this man rushed in when for YOU the reader of this article. He rushed in just as many before him have and many more after him will. He did this without question. It’s OK that he doesn’t see himself as a hero, most people who do great things for others never do to begin with. It’s my hope that I have may the privilege to be in this man’s or any sailors or soldiers presence long enough to render a proper courtesy and a humbled ‘Thank You’.
Posted by: Life Saver - USCG | September 18, 2011, 6:19 pm 6:19 pm
Semper Fi…Brother.
Posted by: Alan | September 23, 2011, 12:34 am 12:34 am
Sergeant Meyer, Thank you very much for your service. My oldest son is a U.S. Marine who has a tour in Iraq as well as a tour in Afghanistan under his belt. He just found out that he is returning to Afghanistan for a second tour. It comforts me to know that Marines such as yourself are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for a fellow Marine. Who knows, maybe my son may end up having to make that decision or have a fellow Marine make that decision for my son. I hope it never comes to that. Those of you that wear the globe and anchor are “The Best…Period ” !You Marines are second to none. You may not consider yourself a Hero, but when you marched across that parade field, you entered a very elite group, all of you are Hero’s!
I also hail from Kentucky, born & raised, you make us proud. I wish you the best and again, THANK YOU !!
Jason T. SFC Retired
Posted by: Jason Trammell | September 23, 2011, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm
1. Sgt. Meyer, if I may recommend a MARINE Recuriting poster ” GUNNY HIGHTOWER MEETS SGT MEYER”. For those who do not know, Gunny Hightower is Clnit Eastwood in “HEART BREAK RIDGE”. Also for a 30 second add on TV; “Gunny Hightower congradulates Sgt Meyer, someone ask him why, the Gunny replies: “Sir he is a MARINE, he adapts, he improvises, he overcomes, that is what MARINES do, Sir.”"
Larry Tyson CPO US Navy Ret
Posted by: Larry Tyson | October 4, 2011, 2:07 pm 2:07 pm
OOH-RAH Good job dakota you are a hero!
Posted by: Mason | October 4, 2011, 7:40 pm 7:40 pm
Mr. Meyer you are a true hero in my eyes i read about all the bad things that have been happining in the workd then i go and read about you and it brightens my day. This month in one of my classes we are doing whoi is your favorite veteran and i choose you. you have inspired me and that issomething to be proud of. You may not think you are a hero but we do. and i am sure the families of the men and wemon you were able to save think so to. you are my favorite veteran
Posted by: melissa | November 9, 2011, 12:06 pm 12:06 pm
This man stood tall in hell…oo-rah
Posted by: Gabriel Saint | January 29, 2012, 8:59 pm 8:59 pm