Don't Panic! It's All Change for Commando

It's all change for Commando as DC Thomson unveil the first set to feature new-style gatefold-out covers.

"Over the last two years we've been listening to our readers’ thoughts about Commando and working to make the comic the best we can for them," explains Calum Laird. "We started the Gold and Silver Collections, digging deep into our archive for the very best classic stories — because they asked us to — and these have proved to be winners.

"We started our By Special Request series to give all readers, even lapsed ones, a chance to nominate titles they wanted to see again — because they asked us to. Judging by the number of requests we get every week, they like this idea.

"We moved to better, cleaner, heavier papers to show off our artwork better — because they asked us to. Okay, they take up more space on the bookshelf but that better quality is worth the extra footage.

"Now, we've managed to go a step further with the first major change to the Commando format since 1961.

The issues released this week (in the UK — sorry, overseas readers, you’ll have to wait a little longer) we’ve added a bit extra to the back covers so that we can display our cover art just as in left the illustrators’ drawing boards. No lettering, no badges, no Commando label.

"Why? Because all the readers who have attended our recent exhibitions told us they really wanted to see it like that.

"There are more changes to come in the near future, ones that we know will go down well (because the readers have already told us that they will)," says Calum, "and that will give you more reasons to keep Commando at the top of your reading list."

For those concerned by any change, don't panic - Commando will be staying the same 68-page pocket-size helping of action and adventure. So prepare yourself to get down to the newsstand on the 6th June (Commando’s very own D-Day) and look out for the new issues with their yellow cover flashes...


Commando 4607 - S For Sniper
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

Sniper. The very word struck fear into the hearts of many an infantryman. The thought that a calculating killer could be lying in wait, hidden from view and able to snuff out a life with a single shot, kept men awake at night.
 
Corporal Alec Knight was a sniper, a man of few words and a crack shot. But was he a cold-hearted killing machine? Between these covers is his story.

Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/6th-june-2013-collection?issue=4607

Commando 4608 - The Talisman
Story: Mike Knowles Art: Jaume Forns Cover: Janek Matysiak

Private Bill Watkins was one of the men who survived the retreat to Dunkirk. He put it down to one unusual incident - the sight of a young French lad spurring him on to reach the safety of an escaping ship when he had all-but given up.
  
Bill decided this youngster was his “Talisman” - his lucky mascot. But was it wise for him to think that a lucky mascot could get him safely through the war? Probably not… especially when he joined the SAS!

Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/6th-june-2013-collection?issue=4608

Commando 4609 - Big Guy
Originally Commando No 92 (November 1963)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Castro Cover: Chaco

“Powerhouse” Jenkins was a born fighter. His only trouble was he didn't care who he fought. Germans and British alike crumpled before his massive fists, and this got him into a lot of hot water with the MPs.
 
When his regiment stormed up the French beaches on D-Day there was a song in Powerhouse's heart. For this was the biggest fight he'd ever been in and he was going to enjoy every minute of it.
 
But as things turned out Powerhouse was promoted to corporal for bravery on the field of battle. And according to his sergeant that meant he was a King's Corporal and couldn't be disciplined ever again…So it was that Powerhouse set out to enjoy himself in his own tough way.
 
What a guy!

“The earliest Commando stories are peppered with two-fisted characters whose answer to every problem was to wade in with punches flying in all directions,” notes editor Calum Laird of this re-presented tale. “This story from Eric Hebden is no exception but there's a twist. A twist based around something only an old soldier would know about. A soldier like Major Hebden. His touch of authenticity lifts the story right up.
 
“He's ably abetted by Castro whose strong black and white work captures the action beautifully. And what about Chaco's cover? Would you mess with that man?
 
“All in all, a lovely little package from the 1963 Commando team.”

Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/6th-june-2013-collection?issue=4609

Commando 4610 - After D-Day
Originally Commando No 2170 (March 1988), re-issued as Commando No 3628 (June 2003)
Story: Ken Gentry Art: Gordon Livingstone Cover: Jeff Bevan

Sergeant Jack Potter had been in the war from the start. A brave bloke, full of courage and common sense. His men knew they could trust him to see them right as they pushed their way forward into France.
 
Then suddenly all that changed. Jack seemed to have something on his mind, something that was more important than anything else - the safety of a man who was no use to anybody!

“Here's a solid tale of honour, betrayal and redemption from author Ken Gentry, illustrated to the usual high standard by one of Commando's most prolific interior artists -Gordon Livingstone,” enthuses Scott Montgomery. “As a young reader many years ago, I'd always admired Gordon's distinctive linework. Yet I never even knew his name until I joined the Commando staff decades later!
 
“Though retired, this superb artist still keeps in touch. When we opened the Gordon (what a coincidence!) Highlanders' wonderful Commando exhibition in summer 2012, Mr Livingstone was a guest of honour alongside fellow illustrator and good friend, Ian Kennedy.”

Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/6th-june-2013-collection?issue=4610

COMMANDO SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

downthetubes is pleased to offer a discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code!

Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page.
When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running. The price quoted offers a 50% discount for three months at £12.50. That’s £68.50 off the shop price.

Please note, although the offer is not restricted to UK delivery (you need a UK bank account), the price increases for overseas delivery although the offer of 50% discount for three months is the same.

* Saving based on discounted Direct Debit price compared with shop price. First quarterly payment discounted by 50% at £12.50 and £25 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. One year discounted subscription rate of £99.

Commando Editor Talks At Chalke Valley History Festival

Commando Editor Calum Laird is scheduled to give a talk at the Chalke Valley History Festival at Ebbesbourne Wake near Salisbury in Wiltshire. The talk entitled  “Achtung! Commando Comics” will take place at 1130 on Saturday 29 June 2013.

Calum will be discussing the history of the comic, the studio in Milan that provided many of the artists in the early years, and the quest for ensuring historical accuracy in all weapons, uniforms, aircraft and machinery. 

In addition he will be explaining how the comics are put together, discussing plots and artwork and also revealing exciting plans for the future.  Chalke Valley History Festival describes the talk with, “For anyone who loves their war stories told with gritty plots and tough-talking square-jawed heroes and with fabulous drawings to boot, this is an unmissable event.”

Tickets to the talk also include access to the Daily Mail Chalke Valley History Festival Airshow which takes place at 1430 at the same location on the same day and includes flying displays by various World War II military aircraft that Commando has featured over the years including the Supermarine  Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane, North American P-51D Mustang, Fairey Swordfish and Messerschmitt Bf108  Taifun.

There are more details of the Festival and how to purchase tickets on the Chalke Valley History Festival website: www.cvhf.org.uk/programme/event/event-40-achtung-commando-comics

In the meantime the latest batch of Commandos are now in the shops...

Commando No 4603 - Scarecrow Squadron
Story: Norman Adams Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

The de Havilland Tiger Moth was a reliable, if rather old-fashioned, aircraft used as a basic trainer for RAF pilots. Pilots like Charlie Chard who was only recently qualified when he and his comrades found themselves in the thick of the action against the German Kriegsmarine and Luftwaffe.

He and his fellow fliers were known as "Scarecrow Squadron" - given the nickname because they were meant to chase away enemies flying over England's coast. A dicey job that, given that their planes were unarmed! Sitting in his open cockpit, Charlie wondered if any of them would survive…

• Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/23rd-may-2013-collection?issue=4603

Commando No 4604 - Bernie's Buccaneers
Story: Bill Styles Art: Vila Cover: Janek Matysiak

With four 1400-horsepower Packard-built Merlin engines powering them forward at close to 40 knots, the crew of MTB 989 felt like the raiders of old when they fired a broadside of torpedoes at enemy shipping.

Privately they called themselves "Bernie's Buccaneers" after their fearless, swash-buckling skipper. They always said would have followed him into the jaws of death…and one day they did just that!

• Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/23rd-may-2013-collection?issue=4604

Commando No 4605 - Target For Tonight
Originally Commando No 57 (February 1963)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Roca Cover: Ken Barr

When crack British Commandos were ordered to fight alongside ace American Rangers in a double strike against an important target, it sparked off the bitter, blistering feud between them that made the "other" war look like a petty quarrel.

Here is the story of this war within a war; of Mike Travers and Red Dooley, who were tough enough to lead and control the best bunch of men that two great nations ever produced.

"The names of Eric Hebden and Ken Barr are well known to Commando fans - for their gripping stories and dynamic cover art respectively," notes Calum Laird of this represented tale. "Once again, they don't disappoint.

"This story of bitter, fist-fired rivalry is beautifully set up on the cover where the two main characters are pitched against one another… at daggers drawn, figuratively and literally.

"It's different with illustrator who provided the black-and-whites for the inside pages for Roca drew only one Commando book. 50 years on it's difficult to say why that would be but it certainly wasn't due to lack of quality. He imparts movement to the figures and uses a scatter of original compositions. Who knows what he might have made of subsequent commissions?"

• Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/23rd-may-2013-collection?issue=4605

Commando No 4606 - Lost In France
Originally Commando No 2162 (February 1988)
Story: Allan Chalmers Art: Nebot Cover: Ian Kennedy

Crash-landing a burning Blenheim bomber in occupied France would generally be reckoned pretty dangerous. And so it was, but compared to what fate still had in store for Harry Conway and his crew, that crash was a picnic!

"Veteran artist Ian Kennedy's stunning, dramatic depiction of a crash-landing Blenheim bomber would, quite rightly, make the reader imagine that they were in for a rollicking air story," says Scott Montgomery, Commando's deputy editor. "It certainly starts off as one but, unusually, this tale takes an intriguing detour into espionage territory, becoming more of a spy caper - which suits Nebot's almost cartoony art.

"It's a good thing when a few neat twists and turns can challenge readers' expectations."

• Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/23rd-may-2013-collection?issue=4606


• There are more details of Commando titles on their official website, www.commandocomics.com, and Facebook page.

COMMANDO SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

downthetubes is pleased to offer a discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code!

Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page.

When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running. The price quoted offers a 50% discount for three months at £12.50. That’s £68.50 off the shop price.

Please note, although the offer is not restricted to UK delivery (you need a UK bank account), the price increases for overseas delivery although the offer of 50% discount for three months is the same.

* Saving based on discounted Direct Debit price compared with shop price. First quarterly payment discounted by 50% at £12.50 and £25 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. One year discounted subscription rate of £99.

New Commandos scale the news stands

Here's the info on the latest issues of DC Thomson's last remaining war comic, Commando, on sale now through high street newsagents and available digitally.

Commando No 4591 - Karl Lubeck, Born Survivor
Story: Mike Knowles Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page
Preview: www.commandocomics.com/collection/issue-4591-karl-lubeck-born-survivor

Karl Lubeck joined the German Army more or less by accident. He really wanted to be a civil servant and the Wehrmacht soon found out that he would have been much better suited to bureaucracy than battlefield.

It took the considerable efforts of a wily, experienced NCO to turn him into any sort of a commander. And keep his head on his shoulders.

Yet Karl would be the man who did what no other German officer managed… and lived to tell the tale.

Commando No 4592 - Last Train From Trotskygrad
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Jaume Forns Cover: Ian Kennedy
Preview: www.commandocomics.com/collection/issue-4592-last-train-from-trotskygrad

The war on the Ostfront was going badly for the Germans. Soviet forces had stemmed their advance and now the invaders were in retreat. As the withdrawal went on, it threatened to become a rout as desperate men sought to escape.

At an isolated railhead, nicknamed Trotskygrad by the Germans, was a group of such men. Men who had a final chance to get away. Men whose only chance of survival was the… LAST TRAIN FROM TROTSKYGRAD...

Commando No 4593 - Mountain Gun
Originally Commando No 97 (December 1963), re-issued as No 583 (September 1971).
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Gordon Livingstone Cover: Ken Barr
Preview: www.commandocomics.com/collection/issue-4593-mountain-gun

Sergeant George Lister was a gunner who didn't know much about fancy talk and smart saluting. He was a bit lost when men spoke of tactics, of fast-moving mobile artillery, of the intricate calculation needed to work out long-range bombardments.

But when the going got rough and his troop was left alone and on foot to drag a ton of gun up the sheer face of a mountain behind enemy lines - then! - it was Geordie's massive shoulders, raw courage and bull-roar of command that drove every man to sweat blood doing the impossible!

“What makes a perfect Commando? That question is often posed, but can never be answered,” notes editor Calum Laird of this re-presented tale. “There is no magic formula. This story, from the sure pen of Eric Hebden, does have many of the ingredients, though. A young officer at odds with a veteran NCO, a vital but nigh-impossible mission - ideal Commando fare.

“A strikingly coloured cover by Ken Barr and accomplished inside art by Gordon Livingstone help push it further towards perfection. But even if it's not completely perfect it's a belting story which I know you'll like.”

Commando No 4594 - Time Runs Out…
Originally Commando No 2223 (October 1988)
Story: C.G. Walker Art: C.T. Rigby Cover: Jeff Bevan
Preview: www.commandocomics.com/collection/issue-4594-time-runs-out

At top speed the four British jeeps raced across the sand. Travelling by day was risky but these desert raiders had vital information that had to be relayed at all costs.

Then three Me109 fighters pounced, unleashing a vicious hail of bullets. The leading jeep took a burst, exploding violently. Two more were quick to suffer the same fate.

Now only Sergeant Dan Smith's team remained. And against such venomous opponents, it seemed their time had run out too…

“A ticking clock - albeit here a metaphorical one - is a good story-telling device, immediately heightening tension and drama,” feels Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery. “Here our desert raider heroes must get vital gen about a target back to HQ but are up against the odds at every turn.

“It's exciting stuff from Messrs Walker, Rigby & Bevan - a trio of talented creative Commando veterans.”

• There are more details of Commando titles on their official website, www.commandocomics.com, and Facebook page.

COMMANDO SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

downthetubes is pleased to offer a discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code!

Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page.

When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running. The price quoted offers a 50% discount for three months at £12.50. That’s £68.50 off the shop price.

Please note, although the offer is not restricted to UK delivery (you need a UK bank account), the price increases for overseas delivery although the offer of 50% discount for three months is the same.

*Saving based on discounted Direct Debit price compared with shop price. First quarterly payment discounted by 50% at £12.50 and £25 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. One year discounted subscription rate of £99.

Vengeance, Hollywood heroes and Spoons? It's your latest Commandos!

The latest issues of war comic Commando are on sale now in all good newsagents, and digitally via iTunes for iPad and iPhone. Here's the rundown - and you can now also read a preview of each issue and "try before you buy", via the Commando web site.

Commando No 4579 - The Regimental Spoon
Story: Mac MacDonald
Art: Keith Page
Cover: Keith Page

Soldiers' lucky charms and mascots come in all shapes and sizes - from medallions to pet goats and all things in between. But surely one of the oddest objects to become a talisman of good fortune was a spoon. Yes, that's right, a humble spoon.

Don't believe it? Well, between these covers is the story of how this kitchen utensil went to war with generations of the same family - and returned home safely every time.

Make up your own mind if the tale is true.

• 8 Page Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/28th-february-3013-collection?issue=4579

Commando No 4580 - Burma Vengeance
Story: Alan Hebden
Art: Vila
Cover: Janek Matysiak

In the dense Burmese jungle, British troops were being driven back towards India, their spirits sapped by a series of defeats at the hands of the advancing Japanese.

Corporal Dan Farley had been left in command of a group of fearful survivors. They expected to be killed at any moment…but then a grizzled veteran Sergeant - ruthless and tough - came of out of nowhere to save their skins.

Dan wanted to be like this lethal newcomer, but the mysterious NCO was on a mission of his own. He had a score to settle with a brutal Japanese Colonel. This quest was personal and it could only end in death… but whose?

• 8 Page Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/28th-february-3013-collection?issue=4580

Commando No 4581 - Hero From Hollywood
Originally Commando No 84 (August 1963), re-issued as No 559 (June 1971)
Story: Eric Hebden
Art: Jones
Cover: Alvaro

Almost every man has a hero…the one bloke in all the world he'd give his right arm to be like. Corporal Joe Brent's number one he-man was the big, granite-fisted American film-star - Chet Marvin.

In the days before the war, Joe queued up to see every movie he made, and marvelled at the sheer guts of the man.

Then, one day in 1941, against a background of exploding German bombs and throbbing aero-engines, Corporal Joe Brent and his celluloid hero met face to face. It should have been the greatest day in Joe's life.

But this was no Hollywood film set. This was war! And when the shot and shell are no longer blanks, it's easy to sort out the men from the boys…

"A little bit of 'conspiracy theory' never goes amiss in Commando and author Eric Hebden takes full advantage here with his invasion that never was," reflects editor Calum Laird on this reprint story. "The main thrust of the story, though, is a hero with feet of clay - or a bad case of the jitters - and he manages that with equal aplomb.

"The art is strong, inside and outside, by two men who handle the drawing of horses with the same skill as Hebden handles the story. And horses, as the best of artists will tell you, are tricky beasts to capture.

"Giddy-up and get reading!"

• 8 Page Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/28th-february-3013-collection?issue=4581

Commando No 4582 - The Secret Tanks
Originally Commando no 2210 (August 1988), re-issued as No 3708 (April 2004)
Story: David Heptonstall
Art: Gordon Livingstone
Cover: Jeff Bevan

The French Char-B tank was one of the best fighting vehicles of the Second World War. But France had surrendered in 1940 so why were there a lot of them in the desert in 1943? And why did they have enemy markings? It was a secret which the Germans were determined to hide but which the Allies were equally determined to uncover.

"This solid tale features a story-telling device that works well in Commando - the linking of World War II with the Great War which had ended a little over twenty years previously," notes deputy editor Scott Montgomery. "Here, the connection is a fighting father and son, and the dependable sergeant that served alongside them both.

"Then, of course, throw into the mix the 'Secret Tanks' of the title - great, clanking French Char Bs - and we have a classic in the making.

"Commando legend Gordon Livingstone's art is up to his usual high standard here, and shows his versatility in drawing action and adventure, whatever the conflict."

• 8 Page Preview: www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/28th-february-3013-collection?issue=4582

• There are more details of Commando titles on their official website, www.commandocomics.com, and Facebook page.


COMMANDO SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

downthetubes ispleased to offer an exclusive discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code!

Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page.

When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running. The price quoted offers a 50% discount for three months at £12.50. That’s £68.50 off the shop price.

Please note, although the offer is not restricted to UK delivery (you need a UK bank account), the price increases for overseas delivery although the offer of 50% discount for three months is the same.

*Saving based on discounted Direct Debit price compared with shop price. First quarterly payment discounted by 50% at £12.50 and £25 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. One year discounted subscription rate of £99.

Last Commandos of the year troop to the news stand

Here's the info on the final issues of DC Thomson's Commando for 2012 - a total of 104  stories, tucked away. It's been a good year for the title, helped, we're told by our coverage and plugs on other sites such as Blimey! It's Another Blog about Comics and others. Time for a quick celebratory pint in the Mess!

Commando No 4559 - Nightmare Hunt

Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

Almost every night, Captain Neil Rigby would wake up in a cold sweat, a nightmare vision before his eyes. The face he saw, twisted with evil, was that of the Nazi officer who had ordered his men slaughtered as he lay powerless to help.

Every time he saw that maniacal, distorted face he swore vengeance, never thinking he would get the opportunity.

Then fate intervened and Neil began his… Nightmare Hunt!

Commando No 4560 - In The Line Of FireStory: Alan Hebden Art: Morahin Cover: Janek Matysiak

In the North African desert the fast-moving vehicles of the Allied armoured car reconnaissance units were always right in the thick of the action - constantly trading shots with the enemy.

Things got even more dangerous when two recce unit commanders - nursing a decades-old grudge between their families - began trying to outdo each other. Both were determined to be first… In The Line Of Fire...

Commando No 4561 - Duel In The SunOriginally Commando No 47 (December 1962)
Story: Stainton Art: Sostres Cover: Ken Barr

Bert Johnson settled in the pilot's seat of the RAF fighter. He wasn't a pilot, but he revved the engine, taxied the plane to the runway, and took off.

As he handled the unfamiliar controls and circled to gain height he saw, coming straight at him, a crack squadron of the Luftwaffe.

Bert's thumbs fumbled for the gun-button on the joystick… Pilot or not, he would have to fight it out now.

“You can tell from Ken Barr's cover that this is an air story, yet the most important action takes place on the ground,” notes editor Calum Laird. “That action is the play between two men - one a frustrated would-be flier, the other a man who has flown, and fought, just too much. In the capable black and whites provided by Sostres, author Stainton paints a captivating tale that is in part all too believable, in part pure Commando invention.

“See if you can tell which bits are which."

Commando No 4562 - From Out Of The Sea…
Originally Commando No 825 (March 1974), re-issued as No 2099 (July 1987)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Cam Kennedy Cover: Ian Kennedy

They came by night… sinister figures in black rubber suits, rising from the depths of the Norwegian harbour. And when they came, the Nazis shivered - for they knew that their precious ships, their vital war materials, were the target. How they dreaded those men from out of the sea…

“Commando stories come with all sorts of different settings but the thing that makes them Commandos is the aggro between the players in the drama,” says Calum. “This one, in the capable hands of Eric Hebden, has that hallmark. But, as with any story from the House of Hebden, things aren't as straightforward as they first appear.

“With dripping wet cover art by Ian Kennedy and strong, flowing lines inside from Cam Kennedy (no relation apart from the standard of their art) this story is a winner from Page One.

“You'll have guessed that I liked it.”

COMMANDO SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

downthetubes is pleased to offer an exclusive discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code!

Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page.

When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running. The price quoted offers a 50% discount for three months at £12.50. That’s £68.50 off the shop price.

Please note, although the offer is not restricted to UK delivery (you need a UK bank account), the price increases for overseas delivery although the offer of 50% discount for three months is the same.

*Saving based on discounted Direct Debit price compared with shop price. First quarterly payment discounted by 50% at £12.50 and £25 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. One year discounted subscription rate of £99.

Leaping Leopards! It's the new Commandos

Here's the latest intel from Commando HQ on the latest issues on sale now in all good newsagents and online...

Commando No 4527 - The Leopard Commander
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

It sounded almost cute and cuddly, an Italian commander named for a big cat. But his British adversaries in East African were under no illusions. They knew that, like his namesake, he was fast, agile... and deadly!

Commando No 4528 - The Doomed Legionnaires
Story: Steve Coombs Art: Benet Cover: Benet

Men from all over the world, men with secret shameful pasts, men who had no place in their home countries. Here they were, gathered together to fight an implacable enemy, for a flag that was not their own.

And because they were foreigners, they had been handed a suicide mission. They were indeed... The Doomed Legionnaires!

Commando No 4529 - Take No Prisoners!
Originally Commando No 25 (June 1962)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Casarubio Cover: Ken Barr

SKULL and CROSSBONES...

Ten British prisoners lay dead - shot down in cold blood. And there were no witnesses to the terrible crime.

The only clue to the killers lay there in the blood-stained dust - a German helmet bearing a skull and crossbones emblem...an emblem which from that day on was to be a death warrant to every Nazi who wore it.

"Ask most people about Commando and they'll tell you about nasty Nazis and clean-cut fair-playing British," suggests editor Calum Laird. "Yet this story from 1962 shows that those assumptions, like all generalisations, don't stand up to scrutiny. Sure there are nasty Nazis but after that things become a bit more hazy and there's a moral ambivalence amongst the British.

"But don't let that put you off! As ever, Eric Hebden crafts a great story behind Ken Barr's intimidating cover, and Casarubio's strong and confident black linework complements the atmosphere very well.

"All in all, this commando takes no prisoners. Sorry."

Commando No 4530 - The Deadly Deal
Originally Commando No 2145 (December 1987)
Story: Allan Chalmers Art: Cecil Rigby Cover: Jeff Bevan

There are good deals, bad deals and deals like the one Jan de Groot made. He agreed that he would work as an agent in enemy-held territory where the slightest slip-up would lead to arrest, torture and probably death.

It was going to take all his courage to keep... THE DEADLY DEAL.

"Our main character, tough-as-nails Dutchman Jan de Groot is a hot-headed hero, which also makes him a flawed hero," says Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery of this story "...and this twisty-turny yarn is an excellent example of a Commando espionage story done well.

"It's complemented by veteran interior illustrator Cecil Rigby's artwork, which is chock full of icy black waters and moody nightscapes.

• downthetubes is pleased to offer an exclusive discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code! Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page. When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running! 

• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com/

• Commando Official Facebook page

• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846

• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.

• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes

• Steadfast! the Commando artwork exhibition at The Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen runs until 30th November 2012. There are more details about the exhibition on the museum website.

Gas-Bag Gunmen and Ghosts haunt new Commandos

The latest issues of DC Thomson's Commando - on sale now - comprise both the regular reprint titles and two 'By Special Request' stories - issues readers specifically wanted to see again. Here's the intel...

Commando No 4523: Gas-Bag Gunmen
Story: R.A. Montague Art: Cam Kennedy Cover: Ian Kennedy
Originally Commando No 804 (January 1974), re-issued as No 2036 (November 1986)

Never had men gone on a secret mission in such a strange craft. Huge, slow, clumsy, she was a perfect target for roving enemy planes.

But she also happened to be the perfect ship for their job. Yes, these guys knew exactly what they were doing!

This Pacific War story -- from the typewriter (remember them?) of veteran Commando writer “Monty” Montague is almost unbelievable. Yet, a combination of careful plotting and cracking art pulls you past any doubts you might have had.

Speaking of art, the black and whites are from Cam Kennedy who was very friendly with Victor De La Fuente whose drawing skills can be seen in Commando No. 4524. Both men can produce magnificent movement in static pictures.

One of Commando’s ‘By Special Request’ issues, reader Stewart Duncan was one of several people who asked to see this one again, principally, he says, because only Ian Kennedy could put a blimp on a Commando cover and not have it look ridiculous.

Commando No 4524: The Deadly One
Story: Hardy Art: Victor De La Fuente Cover: Jordi Penalva
Originally Commando No 529 (February 1971), re-issued as No 1523 (July 1981)

Captain Mike Reilly had lost his left eye in battle so the Top Brass had given him a desk job. And Mike didn’t like that one little bit, because he knew he could still out-shoot, out-march and out-punch almost any soldier living. After all, Nelson only had one eye and one arm and look at the mess he made of England’s enemies!

So Mike set his mind to scheming to get back into the war, little knowing he was letting himself in for the biggest shock of his life...

There was quite a queue to nominate this story for another airing under the ‘By Special Request’ banner, reader Lee Grice being one who suggested it. Looking at that Jordi Penalva cover image, you can see why. It’s so strong what’s inside almost doesn’t matter.

“Only almost, though, and the combination of Hardy’s story and Victor De La Fuente’s super-dynamic art gets you into the action from the first picture. Compare Victor’s black and whites with Cam Kennedy’s in No 4523 — they work the same magic.

As for the title, it works on several levels and in combination with that cover suits the story much better than the working title of Ten Desperate Men. Well done, the 1971 Commando Editor, for picking it.

Commando No 4525 Island Of Ghosts
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Bielsa Cover: Ken Barr
Originally Commando No 30 (July 1962).

The superstitious Japanese sentries on the remote South Sea island dreaded the moonlight tropical nights…

For that was when the ghost walked, and they knew that in the morning another of their men would have vanished without trace...

And in his hiding place a crazy Welshman would clean the blood from his well-used knife...

“The eagle-eyed amongst you will spot that the hero’s blade on the front cover doesn’t quite match the description of it on the back -- this is much bigger than a knife!” notes Commando editor Calum Laird. “But, hey, with a menacing cover image like that, who cares? There is no doubt that Ken Barr’s Commando covers could catch the eye from the other side of the room and draw you in.

“Once you were caught, Bielsa’s stark black and white images underlined the menace in the story, well-crafted as ever by Eric Hebden. In this case he may well have drawn on his experiences as an officer on Gibraltar to give the story its authentic feel.

“And the ghosts? You’ll have to find out about those for yourself.”

Commando No 4526: Luck Of The Devil
Story: C.G. Walker Art: C.T. Rigby Cover: Jeff Bevan
Originally Commando No 2122 (September 1987)

Fleeing into a cave in the grip of mortal fear, John Tilley had the first of a series of amazing escapes from death. From that day he was so lucky it was almost unbelievable.

His men said he had the luck of the Devil. Was that his terrible secret?

“This jungle yarn -- from the pen of veteran Commando scribe Cyril Walker -- has a supernatural flavour,” says Scott Montgomery, Deputy Editor. “The story kicks off with a 1000-year-old curse and then jumps forward in time, focusing on the deadly effect it will have on a group of British soldiers in World War II Burma. Or will it?

“There are great visuals too, of course — courtesy of another couple of Commando veterans, artists Cecil Rigby and Jeff Bevan. A quarter of a century on, Luck Of The Devil remains a terror-tinged tale that never lets up.”

• downthetubes is pleased to offer an exclusive discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code! Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page. When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running! 

• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com/

• Commando Official Facebook page

• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846

• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.

• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes

• Steadfast! the Commando artwork exhibition at The Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen runs until 30th November 2012. There are more details about the exhibition on the museum website.

Soviet Spitfires and Desert Dangers in new Commandos

Four more Commandos are now on sale, with new stories from Alan Hebden and Mac Macdonald, the latter's 'Soviet Spitfire' sure to interest fans of Battle's classic 'Johnny Red' strip. Here's the gen...

Commando No 4503: Operation Ultra
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Rezzonico Cover: Janek Matysiak

Operation Ultra as British Intelligence's top secret programme for the breaking of messages sent by Germany's Enigma machine. It was imperative that the enemy did not discover that the Allies had succeeded, or the cyphers would be changed and the war perhaps lost.

In 1943 Captain Bob Draper and Lieutenant Andy Coates of the Long Range Desert Group unexpectedly found themselves caught up in their own Operation Ultra. It was a deadly game of espionage and counter-espionage with all manner of double-crosses and treachery.

This wasn't just danger... it was ultra danger.

Commando No 4504: Soviet Spitfire
Story: Mac Macdonald Art and Cover: Carlos Pino

Paul Daly was a Spitfire pilot - a pretty good one as the DFC ribbon he wore attested. But being a fighter pilot isn't like being, say, an accountant. No, it's a risky business and all too soon a Luftwaffe shell put paid to his flying when it smashed into his knee.

Though part of him was glad to be out of danger, another part longed to get back in a cockpit once more, though he didn't think he'd have to travel to Russia to do it.

Commando No 4505: Diggers Die Hard
Originally Commando No 39 (October 1962)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Gordon Livingstone Cover: Ken Barr

Johnny Grogan could do anything with that bulldozer of his. Build roads, clear forests, dig canals... he'd even make it sit up and beg if you asked him to.

Then came the day when he had to do something new with it, the day he had to turn it into a tank!

It was the Italian Army's fault - they should never have tried to get tough with a guy like Johnny Grogan. For they found they had a new war on their hands - Grogan's war!

"Here we have three members of the first Commando team to take to the field, playing their 'A' game, despite the hideous pun in the title willed on it by some editor or other," notes Commando Editor Calum Laird. "Eric Hebden's tale takes you to the outer fringes of the Second World War to find a nicely-off-the-wall situation. This is something Commando has often done over the tears, avoiding the obvious, seeking the novel.

"With Gordon Livingstone settled into his stride as a Commando illustrator par excellence and Ken Barr's stonking cover setting the right note this one is solid gold from start to finish. I think I might read it again."

Commando No 4506: Brigand Squadron
Originally Commando No 2073 (March 1987)
Story: Ian Clark Art: Terry Patrick Cover: Ian Kennedy

For fighter pilot David Morgan it was the proudest moment of his life when he was posted to the unit known as “Brigand Squadron”. They were famous for their brave deeds, and their motto was “Never run, never yield.”

But he was in for a nasty shock when he arrived. These men weren't fierce brigands, they were frightened sheep!

"Many people wonder how cover artist Ian Kennedy goes about his craft, and I hope he won't mind me sharing a little insight here," says Scott Montgomery, Commando Deputy Editor. "Just how does the artist manage to make each aircraft look so dynamic? Well, it's simple really. Every time Ian sits down at his drawing board he imagines that he's actually in the cockpit himself - ensuring that every picture is unique.

"You see, Ian had always wanted to be a pilot... but selfishly, we're glad that Mr Kennedy ended up drawing planes instead of flying them!"

• downthetubes is pleased to offer an exclusive discount on a subscription to DC Thomson's Commando comic, entitling readers to save 50% by ordering using our special discount code! Follow this link to DC Thomson's subscription page. When prompted, enter this unique code COMDT - then make your payment and your subscription will be up and running! 

• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com/ • Commando Official Facebook page 

• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846  

• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.

• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes 

• Commando Comics iPad App on iTunes

All change for look and feel of Commando comic

With news on the latest issues of DC Thomson's war comic Commando comes news of a another change to its format - this time, not just in its branding, but actual look and feel.

For the first time in the title's 51-year history, a significant change has been made to its final appearance with a change to thicker, whiter paper for its story pages and increased to the weight and rigidity of the cover for better quality and durability. (Readers will recall explorers snapped reading Commando in recent related posts, so it's probably going to be well received by them!)

"This has resulted in a thicker weightier Commando which we feel (and initial feedback reinforces) better suits a product of Commando's quality" says editor Calum Laird.

"We hope that our fans will like the change. They can let us know what they think through our Facebook page."

Commando No 4491: Hero In A Heli
Story: Steve Taylor Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

The second in Commando's mini-series of Falklands tales 30 years on.

It takes nerve and skill to hold a bucking, weaving Sea King in position over a casualty while one of your crewmates is winched down to try to pluck him to safety. Lieutenant Jamie Price had both these qualities which helped make his crew one of the best in the business.

Yet his brother Owen, a Sea Harrier pilot, ranked him only as a glorified bus driver, never missing a chance to sneer.

He never dreamt that he'd have to trust his life to that bus driver in the hostile skies over the Falklands Islands.

Commando No 4492: The Blood Feud
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Vila Cover: Ian Kennedy

So how did it come to pass that Warrant Officer Greg Blake was about to take on a menacing German Zeppelin during the First World War, armed with only a Martini-Henry rifle?
It's a thrilling tale - one which stretches back to the Boer War, and tells of a bitter blood feud that spanned a generation…

Commando No 4493: Glider Pilot
Originally Commando No 32 (April 1962)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Bonato Cover: Ken Barr

Like great birds of prey the gliders swoop into enemy territory, defying the might of the Luftwaffe and the savage assault of the flak batteries.

Once on the ground their bellies open to spill out bands of fighting men who strike terror into German hearts - the famous airborne Commandos. They give no mercy - and ask none, these men who have been taught to kill…

Spoiler alert! "In 1962, when this gold nugget was first unearthed, the plot device of the trainee who couldn't quite cut it was new to Commando," says editor Calum Laird, of this reprint isssue . "We've used it many times since, because it's still an excellent premise for a story. Eric Hebden makes fine use of it here.

"The inside art by Bonato has a clean, clear line to help the story-telling. He's sparing in his backgrounds, keeping the emphasis where it should be, on the characters who are taking the fight to the enemy on his own ground.

"You can't fault Ken Barr's cover composition or execution for drama and colour - no wonder the original title was so small, no-one wanted to cover any of it up."

Commando No 4494 - Don't Give Up!
Originally Commando No 2105 (April 1987)
Story: R.A. Montague Art: Cecil Rigby Cover: Ian Kennedy

As a Japanese dive-bomber roared in to destroy their trucks, a group of British soldiers scattered for cover. Every man knew they now faced a long trek through the Burmese jungle, trying desperately to stay ahead of the enemy advance.
It wouldn't be easy, buy they must never give up.

"Commando stories are fictional, of course. However, our tales do not shy away from the grimness of war, while still providing solid action yarns," says Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery.

"As a young Commando reader - many years ago - I always found jungle stories to be especially hard-hitting. I could just imagine being immersed in that all-encompassing, claustrophobic atmosphere, where the enemy could strike out of nowhere at any time…
This story reflects all of the above, as a motley crew of heroes - including one man who, in reality, isn't particularly heroic - strive against the odds to blow up a bridge while all the time ensuring that they “Don't Give Up!”

• The Draw Your Weapons exhibition featuring art from Commando continues at the National Army Museum in London closes  in a couple of days, on 30th April 2012. For the latest information visit: www.nam.ac.uk/exhibitions/special-displays/draw-your-weapons-art-commando-comics


• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com

 • Commando Official Facebook page


• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846


• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.


• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes


• Commando Comics iPad App on iTunes

Heroes aplenty in new Commandos

Here's details on the latest Commandos, on sale now in all good UK newsagents...

Commando No 4479: Every Man A Hero! 
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

Zander Zarris was half-British and half-Greek. As he'd never known his father, an officer sent to Greece and lost in the First World War, his allegiance was to Greece first and last.

Came the German invasion of his country and he was in the front line fighting alongside some of the toughest men in the Allied armies. He often wondered how his father would have rated him as a warrior but he'd never know. All he did know was that every one of his comrades was a hero.

And every one of them would say the same of him.

Commando No 4480: “Eject! Eject!” 
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Rezzonico Cover: Ian Kennedy

During the Vietnam War Flight Lieutenant Gary Frakes and Pilot Officer Lew Martin - the crew of an RAAF Canberra - flew bombing missions, neutralising targets like enemy bridges and transport. Their luck ran out when they tangled with a MiG21 fighter and were forced to eject over the hostile territory of neighbouring Laos.

They had barely touched the ground when they realised they'd jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire - deep in the dense jungle there wasn't one enemy, but two!

Commando No 4481: Hill 13
Originally Commando No 23 (May 1962) Story: Eric Hebden Art: Garcia Cover: Ken Barr

When a platoon of front line soldiers earn the nickname “Yellow-Bellies” they can only rid themselves of it by fighting like supermen.

Here, then, is the story of one such platoon, and of how on the bullet-swept slopes of an Italian hill they grabbed desperately at the chance to get rid of that smear on their name.

Officially it was called Hill 13, but to the heroic “Yellow-Bellies,” it will always be “Dead Man's Hill”…

"The great thing about the Commando Gold Collection is the chance to read all the comics I missed first time round," notes Calum Laird, Commando Editor. "Well, I was only five years old when this one came out…

"Eric Hebden has crafted a classic tale of redemption here in Hill 13 where a disgraced unit fights to regain its reputation and self-respect. Cleverly he does it by telling it as the tale of two men, once friends now enemies, in the ideal Commando style.

"Combined with intricate, detailed (though sometime details which are awry) inside art by Garcia and a trademark bullet-riddled Ken Barr cover it's precious bullion for Commando's vaults.

"Enjoy!"

Commando No 4482: Hit-Man! 
Originally Commando No 2095 (June 1987) Story: Alan Hebden Art: Ibanez Cover: Jeff Bevan

Danny Mantini - crack-shot, bodyguard to one of American's top gangsters.

Dan Martin - crack-shot, one of the American Army's toughest, most respected sergeants.

Different names, but it was the same man. And as the Allies fought their way up through the Italian battlefields,

Dan Martin suddenly found there was someone who wanted revenge on Danny Mantini!

"Only in Commando can the backdrop of World War II provide a steady supply of versatile story opportunities - even after 50 years of publishing our authors do it time and again," says Scott Montgomery, Commando Deputy Editor.

"Quirkier fare like this from our Silver Collection proves the point.

"Only in Commando could an American gangster with a dubious past transform himself into a tough but conscientious hero.

"And only in Commando do we get a dream team of quality creators who constantly deliver: on this occasion; writer Alan Hebden and artists Ibanez and Jeff Bevan (cover)."

• The Draw Your Weapons exhibition featuring art from Commando continues at the National Army Museum in London this month and runs until 30th April 2012. For the latest information visit: www.nam.ac.uk/exhibitions/special-displays/draw-your-weapons-art-commando-comics

• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com

 • Commando Official Facebook page

• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846

• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.

• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes

• Commando Comics iPad App on iTunes

Flaming Heck! It's some new Commandos

Just because it was Valentine’s Day this week, Commando hasn’t gone all lovey-dovey. Oh no! Four More action-packed tales are now on sale in all good newsagents for adventure fans...

Commando No 4471: The Flaming Dagger
Story: Stephen Walsh Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

As a 12-year-old living in Paris in the early days of the Second World War, Isaac Vidal hoped that freedom would soon come again to France. He had every confidence that it would for did not his favourite comic have a battling British hero who would thwart the Nazis at every turn?

His optimism was not shared by all, for the Flaming Dagger was a character from fiction and everybody knows that fictitious heroes never win wars. Do they?

Commando No 4472: Battle In The Snow
Story: Ferg Handley Art: Vila Cover: Janek Matysiak

December, 1944. In the midst of the German Ardennes Offensive, an American GI — Corporal Joe Wallace — regains consciousness after a skirmish. Suffering from a head wound, he has no memory of who he is or what happened to him and his buddies.

As he fights to regain his memory, Joe has to battle for his very survival…

Commando No 4473: Killer Ship
Originally Commando No 44 (Nov 1962)
Story: Eric Hebden Art: Cecil Rigby Cover: Ken Barr

Every night as darkness spread over the Mediterranean, sailors of the German Navy who were on duty grew nervous and uneasy. For this was the time the ghost ship would strike.

Out of the night would roar a sleek, black E-boat with the skull and crossbones flying from its masthead.

And on its bridge stood a British sailor as bold as any pirate of the Spanish Main, Lieutenant Bart Mason of the British Navy — running his own private war.

"1962 was the second year of Commando’s history and they struck gold time after time," notes title Editor Calum Laird of this re-issue. "Writers like Eric Hebden used their full imagination to come up with classic characters and plots, just like here. Eric’s son Alan has the same talent.

"Cecil Rigby’s inside artwork works very well here, with a strong line and skillful use of black for the night scenes. There’s very little you can say about Ken Barr’s cover art that hasn’t been said before, but his capture of the speed of the killer E-boat really is something. You can almost smell the salt and the diesel!

Commando No 4474: Hit ‘Em Hard!
Originally Commando No 2111 (August 1987)
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Jose Maria Jorge Cover: Tony Corbett

Nick Bonner led a squadron of Curtiss Kittyhawks against Axis forces in North Africa in 1941. They were slogging it out with the Italians for supremacy of the skies. It was a tough fight, but one which was about to take a savage new twist when a ruthless group of Luftwaffe pilots arrived…

"This super air tale from 1987 was written by Alan Hebden, who still crafts many a cracking script for us today," says Scott Montgomery, Deputy Editor. " Interestingly, Alan’s dad, Eric, was also a veteran Commando author. Check out his sterling work on “Killer Ship”, (No 4473) the 1962 classic reprinted alongside this story.

"The inside art here was by the great Jose Maria Jorge, another Commando stalwart, who sadly died in 2010 and is much missed. It’s a small consolation but at least his dynamic, wonderfully-detailed black and white line art is still with us to enjoy all over again."

• The Draw Your Weapons exhibition featuring art from Commando continues at the National Army Museum in London this month and runs until 30th April 2012. For the latest information visit: www.nam.ac.uk/exhibitions/special-displays/draw-your-weapons-art-commando-comics


• Official Commando web site: http://www.commandocomics.com/


• Commando Official Facebook page


• Click here for subscription information or write to: D.C. Thomson & Co Ltd, The Subscribers Department, Commando Library, 80 Kingsway East, Dundee DD4 8SL or Freephone (UK only) 0800 318846


• Commando is also available for iPad and iPhone. The apps are free to download through the Apple iTunes App Store and a digital subscription is priced at £4.99 per month, compared to a £99 annual print subscription. For those not sure there are four free issues to download prior to making a purchase.


• Commando Comics iPhone App on iTunes


• Commando Comics iPad App on iTunes