Nostalgic Passages: My Childhood TV Show Wonders of 'Combat'

I often revisit my childhood through the lens of TV shows that captured my imagination during my formative years. One such series that brings back vivid memories is 'Combat!'. This show, now a nostalgic gem, continues to be a favorite among those reminiscing about the series that shaped their understanding of military life in the 1960s.

A Childhood Filled with Imaginations

'Combat!' was a show that could transport me and my father to another time and place. Each episode was like a window into a world of camaraderie, bravery, and the challenges of military life. I admired the characters, particularly Sergeant Kirby, whom my dad pointed out as a paragon of the qualities he admired. My dad, a combat infantryman who fought in Italy during WWII, found in 'Combat!' a way to share his experiences and knowledge with me, making it a learning experience rather than just entertainment.

Playing Warriors with Dad

My father would frequently join me in playing war, allowing for a more immersive experience. I played Saunders, the squad sergeant, sporting an inner GI helmet liner and a replica Thompson Sub Machine Gun. My mom helped me by making a camo helmet cover for my helmet, and I would sometimes wear my older sister's khaki jean jacket as a field jacket. The props included an array of machine guns, a toy Springfield, and a toy M1 rifle, along with a plastic Colt 1911 pistol that matched my character's weapon. It's ironic to think that these toys, once our primary focus, have long since disappeared.

The Squad's Characters and Real-Life Influences

Several characters in the show had real-life counterparts, adding layers of authenticity and depth to the series. For instance, Jack Hogan, who played Kirby, was a standout, playing the BAR man with precision. Sergeant Chip Saunders was my hero, embodying the military spirit. In real life, other actors such as Paul Braddock and Jeff Jones brought their own war experiences to the character of Braddock, who only lasted one season due to contractual issues.

The real-life connections to the show were even more profound. GR Lee Hanley and William "Billy" Littlejohn served in WWII, while Frank Caje was a French Canadian Olympic skier. These real-life links to the characters made 'Combat!' more than just a TV show—the characters felt like people with real lives and stories to tell.

The Lasting Impact of 'Combat!'

While none of the characters from the show are alive today, the memory of 'Combat!' lives on. Jack Hogan, the last surviving actor from the show, passed away in 2023 at the age of 94. This sends a bittersweet message about the passing of time and the importance of preserving moments in time through mediums like television. The series is available on DVD, which allows me to revisit these cherished memories whenever I wish to.

Memories of playing war as a child with my father remain some of the happiest and most formative moments of my life. The themes of bravery, camaraderie, and playfulness in 'Combat!' continue to resonate, providing a rich tapestry of nostalgic memories that I can revisit at any time.