Aiken County Bids Farewell to Lt. Brad Dyer: A Retirement Filled with Love and Legacy
In the heart of Aiken County, a touching scene unfolded during the retirement ceremony of Lt. Brad Dyer at the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office. On December 19, 2024, the skies were as clear as the heartfelt emotions shared that day, with temperatures reaching a cozy 52°F and gentle winds blowing from the north.
A Family Affair
This wasn’t just any retirement event; it was a deeply personal celebration. Lt. Dyer, who spent an impressive 23 years serving the community, chose to have his daughter, Shelby Dyer, play a central part in his last call over the radio. Instead of the usual cake and balloons, the room filled with warmth and tears as Shelby read her dad’s call sign for the final time.
“I am so glad that she is part of the retirement process for me,” Lt. Dyer shared emotionally. “Because when this is done, I can look at her and say, ‘OK sweetie, you can sleep better at night, Dad is not out there on the street anymore.’”
Tradition with a Twist
The tradition of broadcasting retirement calls over the radio at the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office holds significant meaning. Lt. Dyer’s call sign, “10-24,” echoed through the airwaves as a symbol of his dedication and service. Shelby’s voice, tinged with emotion, made it all the more special, marking a poignant moment in their father-daughter relationship.
“This really is a family and it’s a bond,” Lt. Dyer reflected. “So when you leave, it feels like divorce in some way.” He wasn’t alone in his farewell, as several other officers, including the current sheriff and various deputies, also said goodbye to their careers this year.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Brad Dyer’s journey in law enforcement started at a young age. Growing up in Aiken County, he always knew he wanted to serve his community. His experiences at the police academy laid the foundation for a distinguished career that began in 1998 at USC Aiken. “I feel called to serve,” he expressed, noting that transitioning away from his role won’t be easy.
Throughout his career, Dyer rose through the ranks, working in various divisions, including special operations and recruitment. “I have a special ability to talk to people about this career,” he said with pride. “It has been very satisfying being able to help people navigate this path.”
A Daughter’s Perspective
For Shelby, growing up with a father in law enforcement was nothing short of extraordinary. “I felt like I was growing up with a department of dads,” she recalled fondly. The sheriff’s office was like a second family, shaping her upbringing with structure and support. When her dad asked her to read his last call, emotion overwhelmed her, highlighting the depth of their bond.
“This is a really big deal,” she confessed. “It was just really special to me that he wanted me to be part of it.” Taking off her father’s badge for the last time was a bittersweet moment. “By protecting him, you gave me the gift of my dad,” she said. “He will miss you all, I think you all know, and so will I.”
The Next Chapter
As Lt. Dyer embarks on this new chapter of his life, he is looking forward to embracing civilian life. “Whatever I decide to do in the future, it will involve making a difference in someone’s life because I can’t walk away from that,” he declared. He also expressed gratitude towards the citizens of Aiken County, emphasizing the lessons learned during his years of service.
“All in all, I want to say thank you to the citizens of this county that I have been able to serve because they have taught me so much,” he concluded, solidifying his legacy as a devoted public servant. With clear skies overhead and a community that loves him, Lt. Brad Dyer leaves behind not just a career, but a lasting impact on the hearts of many.
