This year’s UCHS Homecoming Parade Grand Marshal is no stranger to Union County students, their parents, friends and everyone. His name is Dale Dishmond – excuse me, his name is Sheriff Dale Dishmond at least until Dec. 31, 2022 when his two terms in office comes to an end.

“I was shocked when they asked me,” Dishmond said. “I can’t think of a better community to be part of. I feel it’s an honor to be asked.”

Dishmond was born and raised in Union County and attended Union County Schools from being a Kitchel Cowboy to Liberty Middle School and Union County High School.

“I have a lot of great memories, had great teachers and coaches,” Dishmond said. “Basketball coach Roger Fleetwood was very inspirational. He taught me lot of life skills. We may not have had a great season, but he made us think we were as important as everybody else.”  

In addition to reigning as Homecoming King in 1988, Dishmond was a 3-sport  athlete who was an All-Conference selection in football, basketball and baseball. He was also Honorable Mention on the North/South Football All-State and Baseball All-State teams.

Oct. 15, 2022, will mark 27 years he has served in law enforcement. He completes his second term as Union County Sheriff Dec. 31. 

“It has been an honor to be part of this wonderful community,” he said. “I have a lot of amazing people who work for me. I have no complaints whatsoever.”

Then what? 

Well, the kid who was a Kitchel Cowboy, an outstanding high school 3-sport athlete, Homecoming King and Union County Sheriff has given that some thought without making any decisions.

“I have been looking into different jobs. I’ll figure it out some way, wherever the good Lord takes me.”