Uniting for a Cause: USO Night Showdown at Lexington County Baseball Stadium

As summer evenings roll around and fun-filled evenings are in full swing, the stage is set for a showdown of sorts between law enforcement agencies. On Saturday, June 1, under the lights of the Lexington County Baseball Stadium, the community will gather for a night of friendly competition and heartfelt camaraderie for United Services Organization (USO) Night, an event that not only ignites the spirit of sportsmanship but also honors the noble cause of supporting our military personnel and their families.

On June 1, the highlight of the evening features a thrilling softball match-up between the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Following their game, the Lexington County Blowfish take on the Catawba Valley Stars at 7:05 p.m. After the games, spectators are treated to a display of fireworks to wrap up the evening.

Meghan Dabkowski is a South Region Property Crimes Investigator and the head coach for the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s softball team. Dabkowski’s passion for the game and her dedication to the cause excites her as the team prepares for June 1.

“Many of us on the team have experience playing games in the past,” explained Dabkowski, highlighting her background in collegiate softball and her current involvement in slow-pitch leagues. Her proactive approach to coaching the LCSD team underscores a commitment to camaraderie, ensuring they put their best foot forward on the field.

Reflecting on the team’s enthusiasm and preparation, Dabkowski noted the remarkable turnout at practices, emphasizing the team’s commitment to a greater cause. “It’s all for fun,” Dabkowski remarked. “But we’re taking this game just as seriously as Richland County.”

Beyond the thrill of competition, Dabkowski shared the deeper significance of the event – supporting the USO and showing appreciation for our military personnel. With many team members having prior military experience, the cause resonates deeply within the LCSD community

“We owe the military as much as possible,” Dabkowski shared, emphasizing the mutual respect and support shared between law enforcement and the armed forces.

The USO Night between the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department is not just about winning; it’s about reliving cherished memories, forging new connections and giving back to those who serve our nation selflessly.

As the countdown to game day begins, Dabkowski and her teammates stand ready to showcase their skills, not just for victory, but for a cause greater than themselves. Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join the Lexington County community for an unforgettable evening of sportsmanship, solidarity and support. Event details are as follows:

Date: June 1, 2024

Time: Richland County Sheriff’s Department vs. Lexington County Sheriff’s Department begins at 5:30 p.m.; Lexington County Blowfish vs. Catawba Valley Stars begins at 7:05 p.m. (with fireworks after the game)

Location: Lexington County Baseball Stadium (474 Ball Park Rd, Lexington, SC 29072)

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Honoring Heroes: Reflecting on LCSD’s Law Enforcement Memorial Service

Each year in May, communities across the nation honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. For the Lexington County community, this time is particularly touching as residents gather to commemorate the Fallen Officers Memorial.

“It is important to pause and remember those officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the great community we have,” emphasizes Sheriff Jay Koon. “Their dedication and devotion to our profession resulted in what we have today.”

Although Lexington County’s Fallen Officers Memorial was built in 2010, it stands as a symbol of resilience and the unwavering dedication of law enforcement personnel dating back to 1897. Its establishment traces back to the vision of Lexington Police Chief Terrence Green, who sought to create a sacred space for remembrance. Through fundraising efforts and community involvement, such as barbeque chicken sales and planting flowers, Chief Green’s vision became a reality.

National Police Week, observed annually in May and aligning with the Memorial Service’s date, holds deep significance for those around the nation. It is a time when individuals from all walks of life come together to honor the memory of fallen law enforcement officers. This act of remembrance serves not only to honor their bravery and commitment but also to inspire future generations to uphold the values of service and sacrifice.

For Sheriff Koon and the Lexington County community, the memorial’s impact is profound. “It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for community safety,” he reflects. “Each name engraved in gold lettering represents a life lost in service—an important reminder of the inherent risks faced by those who wear the badge.”

The significance of National Police Week extends beyond mere remembrance. It is a time for the community to come together in solidarity, demonstrating their appreciation and respect for law enforcement. It is a time for people to reaffirm their commitments to supporting those who selflessly serve and protect us each day.

As the Lexington County community gathers this year and in the future to pay tribute to our fallen heroes, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding their legacy of honor, courage and sacrifice, as embodied by the Law Enforcement Memorial Service.

Interested in working in an environment that feels like a family dedicated to making a difference? Check out our current job opportunities. Any questions about qualifications or our application process, please contact us.


If you would like to join LCSD and other community members for the Memorial Service, event details are as follows:

Date: May 16, 2024

Time: 9:30 am 

Location: Mark Westbrook Judicial Center, 205 E. Main Street, Lexington, South Carolina 29072