As the nation gears up for another Memorial Day, it’s essential to remember that it’s more than just a three-day weekend and an excuse to fire up the grill. For those who understand the real meaning of this day, it’s an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the sacrifices made by extraordinary individuals. One such person who brings this perspective to life is Sergeant Dakota Meyer, a former Marine who knows loss and sacrifice intimately, and recently decided—like a true hero of an action movie—to return to the ranks after 15 years, just because he felt like it.
Sergeant Meyer sees Memorial Day as a celebration. It’s a time to appreciate the privilege of having such exceptional people serve and sacrifice for the greater good. This perspective might seem a bit too optimistic for some, but Meyer’s firsthand experiences make it more than just patriotic lip service. As someone who’s witnessed the costs and bravery displayed by service members, Meyer emphasizes how fortunate Americans are to enjoy the liberties and opportunities afforded to them by the sacrifices of others. And, let’s be honest, when the nation is full of folks complaining at length about the Wi-Fi speeds at Starbucks, it’s refreshing to be reminded of what’s really important.
Returning to the Marine Corps after a significant hiatus, Meyer found the same indomitable spirit prevailing among the Marines. Imagine his relief when he discovered that morale in the Corps is soaring and today’s Marines are perhaps the most capable and committed in history. Meyer’s observations lay waste to any notion that the younger generation has gone soft. On the contrary, he found himself in awe of these young Marines who continue to uphold the nation’s values and do its bidding without hesitation. It’s a testament to their commitment that might make us rethink that stereotype about Millennials needing participation trophies in order to function.
Achieving his lifelong dream of becoming a recon Marine, Meyer has now planted his flag at the highest point of personal and professional accomplishment. Reconnaissance Marines are the epitome of what people envision when they think of the U.S. Marine Corps, and Meyer has joined their ranks with a mixture of disbelief and pride. This step means he is not just a Medal of Honor recipient—which frankly sounds like it should be enough—but is also part of the elite, the standard-bearers of the Marine Corps. Who knew joining this group was as easy as knocking on the door and asking politely?
This Memorial Day, as America celebrates its 250th birthday, Meyer offers a poignant reminder. To honor the sacrifices made by those who served, Americans must live lives worthy of such sacrifices, aspiring to build a future reflective of the hard work from the past. There are no handouts in America’s journey to greatness; it took commitment, belief in something greater, and sacrifices from many. So while you’re enjoying that burger at your family barbecue, maybe take a moment to ponder the empty seats at kitchen tables across the nation—those left by the real heroes. Meyer encourages everyone to maintain that quintessential American spirit of believing in better days ahead, a rare but necessary perspective in a world often mired in cynicism.
In a world so focused on me-first attitudes and instant personal gratification, perhaps Sergeant Meyer and the Marines he’s so honored to serve alongside remind us of a lost art: profound gratitude matched with an enduring sense of duty. If nothing else, take a page from Meyer’s book this Memorial Day—a day not just of barbecue smoke, but of reverence for those who ensure there’s a country to celebrate at all.
