Born in Quantico, VA, Dale graduated from Grady High School in Atlanta, GA, followed by graduation from USNA in 1956.  He was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps, and after Basic School at Quantico, served there as a platoon commander for officer candidates.  Later, at Camp Lejeune, NC, he earned Underwater Demolition and Parachuting certificates.  He left the Marine Corps in 1961 as a Captain.

In civilian life Dale earned a Masters Degree in Industrial Management from Georgia Tech and then married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Cobb.  He formed his own firm, Herndon & Associates, working as a residential builder and developer for 30 years.  In retirement he joined Elaine as an Associate Real Estate Broker and served as president of the Lake Rabun Association.  He led the formation of a foundation  which assisted Rabun County aspiring college students and was a charter member of the High Museum of Art in Atlanta.  He died March 31, 2006 of a brain tumor at age 71.

Dale is survived by his wife, Elaine; three daughters: Stephanie Elaine Herndon, Kimberly Herndon Legg (Doug), and Lynda Herndon Morrow (Gary); a son, Dale Collins Herndon, Jr. (Camelia); and six grandchildren.  Elaine continues to reside in Atlanta and is associated with Jenny Pruitt Realtors.

Dale starred on the 150 Pound football team at USNA and could run like the wind.  He was an outstanding Marine Officer and equaled that performance in his civilian pursuits.  He is remembered for his fun-loving ways, ready smile and constant optimism.