Combat! -

Premise:

“Combat!” is a classic American television series that originally aired from 1962 to 1967. Set during World War II, the show follows a squad of U.S. Army soldiers as they navigate the challenges and dangers of the European theater. The series provides a gritty and realistic portrayal of infantry combat, focusing on the camaraderie, sacrifices, and moral dilemmas faced by the soldiers on the front lines.

Main Central Characters:

Sgt. Saunders (Vic Morrow): Sgt. Saunders is the tough and experienced leader of the squad, responsible for guiding his men through the perils of combat.
Pvt. Kirby (Jack Hogan): Pvt. Kirby is a machine gunner known for his aggressive and fearless approach to warfare.
Pvt. Littlejohn (Dick Peabody): Pvt. Littlejohn serves as the squad’s gentle giant and provides a contrasting perspective to the harsh realities of war.
Cpl. Hanley (Rick Jason): Cpl. Hanley is the platoon leader and is often tasked with making strategic decisions for the squad.
Doc (Conlan Carter): Doc is the squad’s medic, responsible for treating injuries and providing emotional support to the soldiers.

Themes:

“Combat!” explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the human cost of war. It delves into the personal relationships among soldiers, the impact of combat stress, and the challenges of maintaining morality in the face of violence.

Critical Consensus (Rating: 4/5):

The series received acclaim for its realistic portrayal of infantry combat during World War II. Critics praised its character development, attention to historical accuracy, and willingness to address the psychological toll of war. Some noted occasional formulaic storytelling.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:

“Combat!” likely received a TV-PG (Parental Guidance) rating due to its depiction of war violence, which, while intense, is presented in a manner suitable for a broader audience.

Original Network and Run:

“Combat!” originally aired on ABC from 1962 to 1967, spanning five seasons with a total of 152 episodes.