In September 1949, Bowser joined the staff of Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, in Honolulu, Hawaii, as assistant G-3 and naval gunfire officer. He served in this capacity until July 1950, when he was ordered to Korea. There he served as assistant chief of staff, G-3, 1st Marine Division. For outstanding service during the Inchon-Seoul and Chosin Reservoir actions, respectively, he was awarded a second and third Legion of Merit with Combat "V".