The television series Combat! (1962–1967) holds a special place in the history of American television. Airing for five seasons and totaling 152 episodes, the show offered a raw and realistic portrayal of World War II, focusing on the struggles, courage, and camaraderie among American soldiers in France. With an ensemble cast and thoughtful direction, Combat! helped define the war drama genre and left a deep impression on audiences.
Today, the series remains popular among classic TV enthusiasts and history buffs alike. A recurring question from fans is whether any of the original cast members are still alive. This article provides verified, up-to-date information about the surviving members of the Combat! cast, their lives after the series, and the legacy they helped create.
A Look Back at Combat! and Its Cultural Impact
Combat! debuted on ABC in 1962 and quickly became a staple of American prime-time television. Created by Robert Pirosh, a World War II veteran, the show stood out for its authentic storytelling, character depth, and unflinching look at the toll of war. Each episode centered on a squad of American soldiers led by Sgt. Chip Saunders and Lt. Gil Hanley as they fought their way through Nazi-occupied France.
What separated Combat! from other war dramas was its commitment to realism. The series avoided glamorizing war and instead explored the psychological and emotional challenges faced by soldiers. It earned praise from veterans and critics alike for its accurate uniforms, tactical movements, and authentic military dialogue.
Main Cast Members: Who Were They?
The cast of Combat! featured several actors who would become television icons. The two leads—Vic Morrow as Sgt. Saunders and Rick Jason as Lt. Hanley—carried the emotional weight of the series. Alongside them were memorable characters like PFC William G. Kirby (played by Jack Hogan), PFC Paul “Caje” LeMay (Pierre Jalbert), PFC “Littlejohn” (Dick Peabody), and the unit’s medic PFC “Doc” Walton (portrayed first by Steven Rogers, then by Conlan Carter).
Each character brought a unique personality to the squad, contributing to the show’s sense of realism and emotional resonance. Over the course of five seasons, the actors created enduring portrayals of everyday men thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Are Any of the Combat! Cast Still Alive in 2025?
As of 2025, a few members of the Combat! cast are still alive, though many have passed away due to age and other circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of those who are still with us:
Conlan Carter (PFC “Doc” Walton)
Conlan Carter, born October 3, 1934, is 90 years old in 2025. He joined the show in its second season and remained through to the end. His calm demeanor and compassionate portrayal of the squad’s medic earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination in 1964. After Combat!, Carter retired from acting and lived a quiet life away from the spotlight. As of 2025, there are no reports of major health concerns, although he is not active in public appearances.
Tom Lowell (Pvt. Billy Nelson)
Born January 17, 1941, Tom Lowell played Pvt. Billy Nelson during the show’s earlier seasons. Now 84 years old, Lowell is known for his youthful charm and genuine performances. While he had roles in other series and films, including That Darn Cat! and The Addams Family, his role on Combat! remains his most recognized work. He is among the surviving cast and continues to engage with fans through occasional correspondence and fan events.
Steven Rogers (Original “Doc” in Season 1)
Steven Rogers portrayed the original medic “Doc” in the first season before Conlan Carter took over. Although he stepped away from the industry early, he has been noted by fans as a part of the show’s foundation. As of 2025, he is alive but leads a very private life, with little public information available about his current health or activities.
Shecky Greene (Pvt. Braddock)
Though not a regular, Shecky Greene appeared in several episodes as Pvt. Braddock. Born April 8, 1926, he is now 99 years old. Primarily known as a stand-up comedian and Las Vegas performer, Greene’s guest role on Combat! remains a fan favorite. He has slowed down in recent years but is reportedly still in good health for his age.
Cast Members Who Have Passed Away
Many beloved actors from Combat! have since passed, but their performances continue to be cherished:
- Vic Morrow (Sgt. Chip Saunders): Passed away tragically on July 23, 1982, during a helicopter accident on the set of Twilight Zone: The Movie.
- Rick Jason (Lt. Gil Hanley): Died on October 16, 2000, at the age of 77.
- Jack Hogan (PFC William G. Kirby): Died on December 6, 2023, at the age of 94.
- Pierre Jalbert (PFC Paul “Caje” LeMay): Passed away on January 22, 2014.
- Dick Peabody (PFC “Littlejohn”): Died on December 27, 1999, at age 74.
Their contributions helped define the tone and success of the series, and each played a crucial role in its storytelling and authenticity.
Legacy of Combat! and the Cast’s Enduring Influence
Combat! remains a highly regarded series among military historians and classic television fans. Its influence is visible in later war dramas like Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan, and The Pacific, all of which carried forward the show’s legacy of authenticity and character-driven narratives.
DVD collections and streaming services have made the series accessible to newer generations, and dedicated fan communities continue to discuss, analyze, and celebrate each episode. The show’s commitment to emotional realism, attention to military detail, and strong ensemble performances make it timeless.
Many of the surviving cast members have occasionally participated in interviews or fan conventions to reflect on their time on the show. They speak with pride about their roles and often share stories of how veterans thanked them for portraying soldiers with respect and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any of the Combat! cast still alive in 2025?
Yes. As of 2025, Conlan Carter, Tom Lowell, Steven Rogers, and Shecky Greene are still alive.
What was the show Combat! about?
Combat! followed a squad of American soldiers during World War II and depicted their missions and emotional experiences in Nazi-occupied France.
What made the show so impactful?
Its commitment to realism, strong ensemble cast, and focus on the human cost of war made it stand out from other television shows of the era.
Where can I watch Combat! today?
Combat! is available on DVD and some classic TV streaming platforms. Check with providers specializing in vintage content or military programming.
Who were the main characters in Combat!?
Key characters included Sgt. Chip Saunders (Vic Morrow), Lt. Gil Hanley (Rick Jason), PFC Kirby (Jack Hogan), PFC Caje (Pierre Jalbert), and PFC Doc Walton (Conlan Carter).
Conclusion
Though many of the original cast members of Combat! have passed on, their work lives on in one of television’s most respected war dramas. A few actors from the series, such as Conlan Carter and Tom Lowell, remain with us today, offering a living connection to a show that brought honor, emotion, and realism to the screen.
Their contributions, alongside those of their co-stars, have created a legacy that continues to inspire audiences and reflect the sacrifices of a generation. Whether you’re revisiting the show or discovering it for the first time, Combat! remains a testament to storytelling that honors courage, loyalty, and the human spirit.