Combs began his military career by attending
United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School in 1968. After designation as a
naval aviator, he served a
tour of duty in
Vietnam as a
CH-46 combat helicopter pilot with
HMM-364,
Marble Mountain Air Facility,
Republic of Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. During his time with HMM-364 he was a helicopter second pilot, aircraft commander/squadron administrative officer, section leader, division leader/assistant operations officer, and flight leader. Upon returning to the United States Combs briefly served as assistant
officer selection officer at United States Marine Corps Recruit Station, Kansas City before joining
HMM-263,
Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico. Leaving active duty in 1973, Combs joined the 635th Aviation Company,
Missouri Army National Guard where he was a
UH-1 aircraft commander. In 1981, he transferred to the
Missouri Air National Guard where he then served a number of years as director of intelligence for a
C-130 Hercules Airlift Wing.
Other Achievements • National Guard Association of the United States Distinguished Service Medal, 2003 ==Civilian career==