Early Life and Education of Dakota Meyer: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Dakota Meyer, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Dakota Meyer is a United States Marine and a veteran of the War in Afghanistan. He received the Medal of Honor for his valor during the Battle of Ganjgal on September 8, 2009, in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. Notably, Meyer is among the youngest living recipients of the Medal of Honor and the first living Marine in nearly four decades to receive the award.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education

June 26, 1988: Dakota Meyer Born

On June 26, 1988, Dakota Louis Meyer was born. He later became a United States Marine and a Medal of Honor recipient.

Others born on this day/year

2006: Graduation from Green County High School

In 2006, Dakota Meyer graduated from Green County High School. During his time there, he expressed his intention to go to college and play football to a Marine Corps recruiter, who doubted his ability to become a Marine.

2007: Deployment to Fallujah, Iraq

In 2007, Dakota Meyer was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, serving as a scout sniper with the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines.

May 17, 2008: Marriage to Cassandra Marie Wain

On May 17, 2008, Dakota Meyer married Cassandra Marie Wain in Campbellsville, Kentucky.

September 8, 2009: Battle of Ganjgal

On September 8, 2009, Dakota Meyer participated in the Battle of Ganjgal in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. His actions during this battle led to him being awarded the Medal of Honor.

September 2009: Actions in Kunar Province, Afghanistan

In September 2009, during his service in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, Corporal Meyer's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity during an ambush significantly disrupted the enemy's attack and inspired the members of the combined force to fight on.

2010: Divorce from Cassandra Marie Wain

In 2010, Dakota Meyer and Cassandra Marie Wain divorced.

September 15, 2011: Medal of Honor Ceremony

On September 15, 2011, Dakota Meyer was awarded the Medal of Honor in a ceremony. He requested a beer with President Obama and simultaneous commemorative services to honor his fallen colleagues.

September 2011: Honorary Title of Kentucky Colonel

In September 2011, Dakota Meyer was bestowed the honorary title of Kentucky Colonel by Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear during an event in his hometown of Greensburg, where Meyer served as grand marshal.

December 15, 2011: Settlement with BAE Systems

On December 15, 2011, BAE Systems announced that they had resolved their dispute with Dakota Meyer out of court. Meyer had filed a lawsuit alleging the company punished him for opposing a weapons sale to Pakistan.

March 13, 2015: Engagement to Bristol Palin

On March 13, 2015, Dakota Meyer and Bristol Palin got engaged.

January 6, 2016: Meyer Confirmed as Father and Files for Custody

On January 6, 2016, it was reported that Dakota Meyer was the biological father of Bristol Palin's child, and Meyer filed legal documents asking for joint legal and physical custody and child support.