Each year, Clemson University honors the courage and dedication of the men and women who have served our nation. This Veterans Day, the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine highlights one of Clemson’s own, First Lt. Wesley Meno, a senior civil engineering major whose life and studies are made even more meaningful through his partnership with Brooks, a four-year-old golden retriever and loyal service dog.
1Lt. Meno’s journey to Clemson began long before he set foot on campus. After earning his first degree in public relations from Augusta State University, he commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army through ROTC. Following Armor School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he served as a reconnaissance platoon leader with C Troop, 8th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. His deployment to Kandahar City, Afghanistan, from 2012 to 2013 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom marked a defining chapter of his military career. Upon returning home, he served on the commanding general’s personal staff at the 7th Infantry Division Headquarters before voluntarily concluding his active-duty service in 2015.
Now, as a Clemson Tiger, Meno channels his discipline and leadership into academics, pursuing a career goal of becoming a professional engineering consultant in geotechnical and stormwater engineering. But alongside his studies walks a constant companion, Brooks.
“He’s great with people and will play fetch all day if possible; he’s spoiled rotten and popular with the ladies,” Meno joked. “He’s a pretty boy, and he knows it.”
Brooks isn’t just a friendly face on campus; he’s a trained service animal, dedicated to helping Meno recognize and respond to post-traumatic stress triggers. Brooks provides both practical assistance and emotional grounding. Their bond is a testament to the life-changing impact that service animals have on veterans as they transition to civilian and academic life.
For Meno, Veterans Day holds personal significance. “It’s an important day to recognize the small percentage of the population that gave so much of themselves in service of country and community,” he reflected.
The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine is proud to honor 1Lt. Meno and Brooks and all veterans within the Clemson Family and beyond for their service and sacrifice. Their dedication reflects the University’s commitment to supporting those who serve and to building a community of care, respect and belonging for every Tiger.
