Paris ISD honored this year’s Distinguished Graduate, John Dalen Bunch on Sept. 19, 2025, who served as the Grand Marshall in the Homecoming parade and honorary captain for the coin toss.
“We are grateful to Mr. Bunch for returning home to Paris High School and for allowing us to honor his outstanding achievements. Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat,” said Paris ISD.
Bunch, a Paris, Texas native and 2000 graduate of Paris High School, excelled both in academics and extracurriculars, lettering in baseball, football, band, and choir while staying active in student organizations. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Development from Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and the Corps of Cadets Club Baseball team, serving in multiple leadership roles. After graduation, Dalen was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, serving as an infantry officer in Iraq during the Battle of Ramadi. His leadership earned him the rank of Captain along with numerous awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor.
Following his military service, Dalen transitioned to federal law enforcement, serving as a Federal Air Marshal and later as a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service before joining the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, where he continues his service today. Over his career, he has received multiple honors for his leadership and dedication, while also giving back through Scouting, veterans’ organizations, and the Masonic Lodge. An Eagle Scout and active Assistant Scoutmaster, Dalen remains committed to serving both his country and his community. He is the son of Randy and Lucia Bunch of Paris, Texas, and the proud father of Gabriel R. Bunch of Peru, Illinois.
