[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 85 (Thursday, May 16, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E512]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING DAVID B. COMBS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BRANDON WILLIAMS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 16, 2024

  Mr. WILLIAMS of New York. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to 
recognize Army veteran and former Police Chief, David B. Combs for his 
distinguished career of service.
  David was born in Rome, New York, to the late Vaughn and Edna Combs. 
He attended Rome schools and graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1967. 
Shortly after graduation, David enlisted in the United States Army. 
After basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, he went to Fort Gordon, 
Georgia where he trained as a telephone lineman. Upon graduation, David 
was assigned to A Company, 37th Signal Battalion, 1st Signal Brigade in 
Vietnam where he installed and maintained telephones and telephone 
lines in military installations throughout DaNang and the surrounding 
area. After working with that battalion for 18 months, David returned 
to Fort Bragg NC where he completed his tour at the rank of Sgt. E-5. 
He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service 
Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the New York State Medal for 
Merit.
  After receiving an honorable discharge, David continued his service 
to the community by joining the Rome Police Department. He began his 
career in July 1971 as a patrolman and was promoted through every 
uniform rank, retiring as Chief of Police in 1993.
  Apart from his personal military service, David designed and 
constructed over 60 flag boxes which were presented to each member of 
the 174th Fighter Wing upon their return from Bagram Airfield in 
Afghanistan. For this selfless act, David received a Certificate of 
Appreciation from the commander of the squadron.
  Additionally, David is a member of the Rome VFW Post 2246 and a 
member and officer of the Lee Center American Legion Post 1794. David 
is also a member of the Rome Coin Club, the Point Rock Gun Club, the 
Lee Center Gun Club, the Rome Police and Fire Department Retirees Group 
and the Lake Delta Kiwanis.
  On behalf of New York's 22nd District, I am pleased to recognize the 
service and accomplishments of David B. Combs and thank him for his 
dedication to our country and community.

                          ____________________