Courtesy of Dynamic Sponsorships

Dakota Louis Meyer has lived the life of a thousand men. When duty called, he answered in a powerful way more robust than most. Now that his active service has ended, he continues to spread the ideals of patriotism with the country. 

At just 36 years old, Sergeant Dakota Meyer of Columbia, Ky. has seen much more life than most of us. We as humans tend to go through a fairly routine trajectory in life, checking boxes and doing whatever we can to make an honest living. Meyer, however, has already made more of a mark on this country than many will make in a lifetime.

A veteran of the War in Afghanistan and the second-youngest living Medal of Honor recipient, Meyer rose to the occasion when his fellow troops were in dire need because he believed in and loved our country and his commitment to it. He put his own personal safety aside to help both his country and his brothers.

Reading that, it might sound like something that only happens in the Hollywood movies but this man has experienced things we could never imagine.

Terrifying, to say the least.

He’s a man of principle, fact and common sense. So, when he shows up to any event, it makes sense to listen carefully to what he has to say. As someone who loves fishing, Meyer had an opportunity to make the trip to the 2024 Toyota Bonus Bucks Owners Tournament on Lake Hartwell. He was absolutely thrilled to experience the prestigious event.

“I’ve been with Toyota for the last 12-years an we’re out here talking about the Hiring Our Heroes program and raising awareness to support our veterans,” Meyer said. “The foundation helps veterans make a smooth transition back into civilian life. We connect our military community, including service members, military spouses and veterans with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong and diversified workplace.”

Meyer was excited to see the turnout at the 2024 Toyota Bonus Bucks Owners Tournament and cherished the opportunity to get to meet fellow anglers and share how much Toyota has done for the program. On top of speaking to and addressing the entire group of anglers, Meyer made time for a private meet and greet with Toyota manufacturing plant team members who are military veterans.

“I think this is an absolutely fantastic event,” Meyers said. “This is the first time I’ve been able to be out here meeting all these great anglers. I’ve loved meeting folks who support Toyota, which is the most American-made vehicle out there right now. Toyota supports service members and they support this beautiful country along with the ideas and unity we stand for.”

Sure, he’s promoting a great cause; but there’s one thing he also wants to check off his list.

“Being around all of these anglers and this atmosphere, I want to come again next year and fish the tournament,” Meyer said. “Fishing has always been such a huge part of my life and I can’t wait to come back. All the fellowship, community and smiles make this an enjoyable time for everyone.”

For someone who has been through so much at such a young age, it meant the world to the angling community to spend some time with him. There’s a suspicion, however, that the sentiment was equal. After experiencing the things he has seen, it sure was nice to be among the fishing community, just being a regular guy and shooting the breeze with fellow outdoorsmen and women.