Major General Couch is a graduate of Kansas State University and was commissioned in 1979. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Food Science and Industry from Kansas State University; Master of Science from Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, and a Masters in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College. Major General Couch has served over 35 years as a Soldier and his key assignments include numerous staff positions and command at Company, Battalion, Brigade level and higher. Major General Couch retired after serving as the Chief of Staff, United States Transportation Command, Scott AFB, IL. He has served two command combat tours in Iraq 2004-2005 and 2007-2008. His awards and decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award), the Army Commendation Medal (5th Award), the Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), the Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. After 20 years of Civil Service, Major General Couch retired from Civil Service as the Director for Programs and Services at the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He was responsible for education and physical plant operations of the prison.