ABOUT
Early Military Career and MACV-SOG Service
Meyer enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966, driven by a sense of duty and a desire to serve his country. After completing Airborne and Special Forces training, he was assigned to Command and Control North (CCN), a highly classified unit within MACV-SOG. This top-secret special operations unit conducted reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines in Laos, Cambodia, and North Vietnam—areas where U.S. forces were officially prohibited from engaging.​
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As a member of MACV-SOG, Meyer led and participated in numerous high-risk missions, facing overwhelming odds against North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces. These clandestine operations required extraordinary courage, as SOG teams operated in enemy territory with minimal support, relying on their training, teamwork, and resilience to survive. Meyer’s writings have provided invaluable insight into the experiences of SOG operatives, shedding light on their heroism and sacrifices.
​Life after war
Following his military service, Meyer transitioned to a career in journalism, where he honed his skills as a writer and storyteller. Recognizing the need to document the untold stories of MACV-SOG, he authored several books that capture the intensity and reality of special operations in Vietnam. His acclaimed books, Across The Fence: The Secret War in Vietnam and On The Ground: The Secret War in Vietnam, co-authored with John E. Peters, provide gripping, firsthand narratives of the extreme dangers faced by SOG teams. These works have earned widespread praise for their authenticity and historical significance, serving as essential reading for military historians, veterans, and enthusiasts of special operations history.​
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Beyond his books, Meyer has become a dedicated advocate for Vietnam veterans and a sought-after speaker on military history. He has appeared on numerous podcasts, interviews, and documentaries, sharing his experiences and raising awareness about the challenges faced by special operations forces during the war.He has been featured on the Jocko Podcast, SOFREP, and various veteran-focused platforms, offering unique insights into the realities of combat and the enduring bonds formed among warriors. His contributions to historical preservation help ensure that the sacrifices of MACV-SOG operatives are never forgotten.​
Legacy and Continued Influence
Today, John Stryker Meyer remains a leading voice in the veteran and military history community. His unwavering commitment to sharing the truth about MACV-SOG’s covert missions has brought long-overdue recognition to those who fought in the shadows. Through his books, public appearances, and advocacy, Meyer continues to honor the legacy of his fellow soldiers while educating future generations about the courage and resilience of America’s elite warriors.
