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World War II POW Veteran Enjoys A Special Trip Down Memory Lane In Middle Tennessee

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(June 25, 2008 – Lebanon, Tennessee) A very distinguished guest recently took that special walk down “memory lane” at Lebanon, TN based Classic Cars Southeast.  Eighty-five year old William White Combow and two close friends, Lebanon businessman Eddie Conrad of Conrad Construction and Wayne Miller of Georgia based Talmo Construction, stopped by the dealership to check out the latest inventory of great classic autos.  This was not the first visit by the trio of friends and they enjoy taking advantage of any opportunity to include a stop at the facility whenever they are together in the Middle Tennessee area.  The three men recalled fond memories as they viewed the 40 or so vehicles on display and each related stories about respective experiences with many of the classic automobiles in the dealership showroom.

Combow, recognized and respected for his very rich heritage of honor, duty and service to his country, is currently a resident of Cedar Bluff, Virginia.  However, for a two year period during World War ll, home for him was various concentration camps in Germany, Russia and Poland.  At the time, this decorated military serviceman was a Captain in the US Army Air Corp.  His appointment as a commissioned aviation officer paved the way for numerous air combat missions that eventually led to his status as a POW.  He also served as Squadron Commander for three hundred allied pilots at POW camp # 4 in Russia, near Koszalin, Poland.  Now, as a retired Major, his honored military service record, coupled with an impeccable memory and “unique wit”, are impressive traits that command the full attention of anyone in his presence.  It is truly an educational experience to learn, first hand, about this great American’s accomplishments and interesting journey through life.

Combow’s fascinating story begins back in 1942 when, as a young 18 year old high school graduate, he enlisted in the regular Army to help defend his homeland.  A strong desire to enlist had been triggered by an overpowering obligation to do whatever was necessary for his country.  By enlisting, he helped to satisfy a US government recruitment goal of ensuring an adequate build-up of US military armed forces.  His personal ambition was to become a pilot and, through dedication and hard work, this eager Army private eventually satisfied that dream.  Advancement into the ranks of the Army Air Corp soon afterwards found Combow sitting comfortably in the cockpit of an American pursuit aircraft.  Reaching prestigious status as a flight officer also meant assignment to an air base in England where he flew almost 50 missions as a P-51 pilot, often engaged in heavy combat.  Unfortunately, during an important mission over Germany, to dismantle a refinery disguised as a convalescent hospital, his aircraft was shot down by enemy artillery.  This “life altering” incident resulted in his capture and began the two year POW imprisonment.

When asked about the most memorable moment in his distinguished career, Combow is quick to reference one particular fateful day, February 2, 1945.  That’s when he and fellow POW’s were evacuated from their camp near Koszalin, Poland under the escort of ten German soldiers.  Their destination was not clear, however, it was thought to be Stettin, Germany, where they would board a cattle boat and most likely go to Hamburg or Lubeck.  Of particular interest, the transfer was made on foot during one of the worst winters Poland and Germany had ever experienced.  Evenings found the group bedded down in fields with their only authorized possessions, a few personal belongings and a blanket.  They also had a Red Cross parcel consisting of some nourishing food items such as a box of crackers, a can of spam, a chocolate bar and a box of raisins.  It also contained some cigarettes and shoe polish, the polish was used by the men for fuel.

Each morning the group would arise and, after being counted, continue on the long walk to their destination. At one point during the 1380km hike, a deal was made with a local farmer to acquire a hay wagon for carrying those men who were no longer able to walk.  The wagon was traded for some of the American cigarettes which had been included in the Red Cross parcels.  Able POW’s pulled the wagon, assisted by various slave laborers that were encountered along the route.  This remarkable journey took a total of 93 days, without even one change of clothing.  However, this black cloud did contain one silver lining. Unbeknown to anyone in advance, the end of this trip resulted in liberation for each POW.   

“William Combow is a true American Hero” said Dale Nunnery, founder and president of Classic Cars Southeast, “his record of dedication and personal sacrifices helped to pave the way for all Americans to enjoy a better way of life and for such selfless efforts we are all very grateful”.  Since Combow is no stranger to the classic car dealership, he is always eager to stop by and enjoy reminiscing among the beautiful classic vehicles.  Nunnery considered it an honor to have his distinguished friend visit the dealership and, as always, enjoyed their brief time together.  Additional information on the unique classic car dealership can be found on line at www.classiccarsse.com.

Today, when this highly decorated World War II combat pilot is not traveling across America satisfying speaking engagements, he enjoys meeting visitors at a unique memorial located at his home.  On display in the exhibit are 38 medals that include the Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star, a total of six Air Medals, Purple Heart, Soldiers Medal, and a POW Medal.  These items, along with other interesting memorabilia commemorating a remarkable career, are a “must-see” for any patriotic American.  Combow also enjoys spending time traveling back to the various areas in Germany and Poland where he proudly served his country and eventually became a POW.  One of the most admirable sentiments expressed by this dedicated veteran is his total confidence in and appreciation for today’s youth.  Combow’s experiences and life accomplishments offer an interesting story and would be an excellent subject for a book or even the big screen.  Fortunately, that’s exactly what is being considered.

William White Combow (center), is excited about his special trip down memory lane at Classic Cars Southeast.  He recently teamed up with longtime friends, Lebanon, TN businessman Eddie Conrad (left) and Wayne Miller of Talmo, Georgia, to check out the latest vehicles on display at the classic car dealership.  The trio enjoys getting together whenever possible and on this occasion, during a short middle Tennessee visit, they included a tour of the classic car showroom.  Combow distinctly remembered the beautiful 1956 Pontiac Star Chief in the background, as he shared a lot of his memories and experiences with the dealership staff.