EMS Deputy Chief Combes retiring after 29 years

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – When John Combes decided to become a paramedic, George H.W. Bush was president and Chattanooga’s E-M-S system was getting off the ground.

Today, after 29 years, E-M-S Deputy Chief Combes is stepping down.

During his career, he had held almost every management position.

And before that, he was a firefighter for 11 years.

Mayor Jim Coppinger was the fire chief for part of that time.

Deputy Chief Combes told us “It’s an honor. I appreciate them being here. They’re co-workers and they’re friends and that’s the main thing. And that’s what I’m going to miss the most, is the friendships.”

Deputy Chief Combes was given a rocking chair as one of his retirement gifts.