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.

Web Find: Bunty And Judy Digest Covers

Here on downthetubes we regularly promote DC Thomson’s (and indeed the UK’s) last digest or ‘Picture Library’ comic, Commando, a title that has changed little in the half century since it was first published. As well as war, DCT’s boy’s digests also covered science fiction with Starblazer, and football with Football Picture Story Monthly.

But it is often forgotten that DC Thomson used to published a range of girl’s digests as well and, unlike the boys titles, these tied-in with the company’s range of girl’s weekly comics. Judy, Mandy, Debbie and even the long running Bunty had digest-sized siblings, all of which were tagged as Picture Story Library For Girls.

With the collecting bug of keeping comics not as prevalent amongst girls as it was amongst boys, old girls comics tend to be harder to find now than old boys comics are and, for most, these girl’s digest titles are all but forgotten.

So it was a treat this week to be pointed towards a website that documents both Judy Picture Story Library and Bunty Picture Story Library with a very impressive selection of covers from both titles plus the beginnings of a selection from the Fleetway title June and School Friend Picture Library. Created by “Doeth”, the website shows how the style of covers of the two DCT titles changed over the years and, while the images are relatively small, it is possible to distinguish some of the artists who created them.

Ian Kennedy, with his artwork on well over 1000 issues, is today considered to be the pre-eminent Commando cover artist but in the past he also provided covers and strips for DCT’s girl's titles. Commando readers may enjoy the challenge of finding Ian's distinctive artwork amongst these hundreds of Judy Picture Story Library and Bunty Picture Story Library covers. We will give you a start with these two covers by Ian Kennedy.

The gallery of Judy Picture Story Library covers are here.

The gallery of Bunty Picture Story Library covers are here.

The gallery of Judy and School Friend Picture Library covers are here.

Dungeons, Air Aces and Phantoms - It's your latest Commandos!

Four new Commando comics went on sale today in all good newsagents - and actually, their distributions seems to be improving, as we've spotted them in several new places recently. Here's the low down on the stories…

Commando No 4583: Dungeon Of Doom
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Benet Cover: Benet

The four-man special force known as the Convict Commandos were in dangerous territory. They had entered neutral Spain illegally and were now deep within a castle which bristled with all sorts of perils - from Nazi interrogators to axe-wielding maniacs.

This time even they had got in too deep!

• Preview: http://www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/14th-march-2013-collection?issue=4583

Commando No 4584: American Ace
Story: Mac MacDonald  Art and Cover: Carlos Pino

He stepped off a US freighter in Liverpool and walked straight to the nearest RAF recruiting office to join up. A natural pilot, he was at the controls of a British fighter in no time.

As his score of victories mounted in the summer of 1940, his fellow pilots never dreamed he carried a secret - one that, if discovered, could be his death warrant!

• Preview: http://www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/14th-march-2013-collection?issue=4584

Commando No 4585: Phantom Sergeant
Originally Commando No 81 (August 1963)
Story: Elliot Art: Cueto Cover: Alvaro

He moved like a shadow, a ghostly-quiet shape that flitted through the Burmese jungle wherever there was a Japanese soldier to be hunted, an invading enemy to be destroyed.

Many of those men did see the Phantom Sergeant, but if they did that was the last thing they ever saw…

"It's a Commando tradition that we make our stories as authentic and accurate as we possibly can," notes editor Calum Laird of this re-presented tale, "so it's probably best to admit straight away the aircraft in this tale are not quite up to the mark. Don't let that put you off, though, the tale is otherwise well drawn and the cover is particularly fine.

"The tale itself is particularly hard - especially on the Japanese. There's little sympathy for any of them in the story, written less than 20 years after the war finished.

"Still, it's a fine adventure and one I hope you'll enjoy."

• Preview: http://www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/14th-march-2013-collection?issue=4585

Commando No 4586 - Heading For Trouble
Originally Commando No 2151 (January 1988), re-issued as No 3579 (December 2002)
Story: Allan Chalmers Art: Ibanez Cover: Ian Kennedy

During the Second World War most officers fought gallantly alongside their men. But a few - like a certain Lieutenant Fairfax - were cowardly, incompetent and more likely to endanger their own troops than the enemy.

You can bet that any man serving under Fairfax would very soon be - heading for trouble...

"All Commando stories send the characters on a journey - whether physically, emotionally or metaphorically," notes Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery of this story, "and on many occasions this involves the journey from villain or anti-hero to hero. Heading For Trouble neatly turns this notion on its head, however. Sergeant Ian Cheam starts out as an instant, reliable Commando hero but soon his path leads towards that of a cynical anti-hero. Where will his journey end…?"

• Preview: http://www.commandocomics.com/latest-issues/14th-march-2013-collection?issue=4586

• 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.

Commando goes Kindle, new print issues on sale now

Along with details of the latest print editions of DC Thomson's Commando war comic comes news that the title has pushed further into the digital sphere - with a number of one-off issues released for Amazon's Kindle device.

"Operation Kindle has been a success," editor Calum Laird tells us. "There will be 12 Commando issues in the Kindle store by the time you read this.

"There has been a lot of work involved to get them there," he acknowledges, "but I think the results are worth it. The pop-outs (or guided reading, if you prefer) give a slightly different reading experience when compared to paper or even on our app.

"A spin-off is that Android users will be able to access the stories using a Kindle reader which will tide them over until our digital boys can be persuaded (bludgeoned) to give us a proper Android app!"

The issues released are: Hell’s Cauldron, The Sergeant And The Squad, Sky Ace, The Chef Who Went To War, Operation Horsa, The Brink Of War, Fog Of Doom, Saved From The Sea, Nightmare Hunt, In The Line Of Fire Duel In The Sun and From Out Of The Sea.

For those of you who still like your adventure on paper (and for those with an iPad or iPhone), here's the detail on the latest news stand titles...

Commando No 4575 - Drop Zone Danger
Story: Bill Styles Art: Olivera Cover: Janek Matysiak

Loading supplies on to C47 Dakotas wasn't the most glamorous job in the Far East. Hard work even for strong men and vitally important but hardly the stuff of death- defying adventures.

So, as Private Seth Yarrow and his mates diligently got on with their back-breaking chores, they never once imagined that they'd end up alongside a unit of Chindits - fighting the Japanese deep in the heart of the Burmese jungle!

Commando No 4576 - Voyage Of The Valkyrie
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Rezzonico Cover: Ian Kennedy

With six-inch guns, torpedo tubes and a Freidrichshafen-33 floatplane to hunt out targets for her, the German commerce raider Valkyrie was feared by British merchant crews in the South Atlantic in the early years of the First World War. So much so that the Royal Navy sent an M-Class destroyer to track her down, and destroy her.

However it was another, much more unexpected, enemy that the Valkyrie's crew had to fear…

Commando No 4577 - The Iron Man
Originally Commando No78 (July 1963), re-issued as No 547 (May 1971)
Story: Kellie Art: Martin Cover: Ken Barr

Six words. Just six small words were all it took to turn the tough, loyal team that formed the crew of a fighting desert tank into a bunch of snarling, suspicious enemies.

And those were the words Jack Baker, tank commander, heard from Military Intelligence only minutes before he was due to leave on a dangerous operation - “THERE IS A TRAITOR AMONG YOU…”

“Early Commando stories can be pretty gritty at times,” notes editor Calum Laird of this reprint story. “There's an early scene here which pulls no punches - principally because the Second World War was in the very recent past and many of the comics' creators had 'done their bit.'

"This tale is no exception; there are details in the story which add an air of authenticity difficult to give a story nowadays because knowledge of these minutiae have been lost.

“So grab yourself a slice of the real stuff while you can.”

 Commando No 4578 - Call To Battle
Originally Commando No 2229 (November 1988)
Story: Ken Gentry Art: Denis Mcloughlin Cover : Jeff Bevan

Sergeant Tim Sanderson had heard all about The Fighting Hawk from a dying relative. It was an old and priceless carving on an ebony staff, encrusted with fabulous jewels, used by an Arab tribe to call their brethren to battle. But that was in the distant past and he half-suspected that the whole thing was just a myth with no place in the savage desert clashes of nineteen-forty-two.

Luckily he was better at fighting than seeing into the future…

“The arid wastes of the North African desert have provided Commando writers with seemingly endless story opportunities,” says Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery of this tale. “Over the year, too, we've seen many a tale based on quests to rediscover ancient artefacts imbued with power, whether symbolic or mystical.

“In this case the prized object is a magnificent, jewel-encrusted staff used to by an Arab tribe to rally its warriors in an eponymous 'Call To Battle.' But it is not just for them. The staff is something from an old, never-forgotten tale that also galvanises our everyman Commando hero, Sergeant Tim Sanderson, into action.”

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.

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.

Commando: Tigers, Walruses and Horsas

It is the time of year when the calendars are in newsagents, card shops and shopping centres around the country and for the second year running Waverley Books have produced a calendar featuring the painted cover artwork of Commando. The cover illustration by Ian Kennedy, from Tiger In The Tail, shows an RAF Lancaster bomber tail gunner letting loose at attacking German night-fighters while the twelve monthly illustrations include another five different Ian Kennedy covers along plus art by Gordon Livingstone, Ken Barr, Jordi Penalva and Jeff Bevan. The Commando Calendar 2013 has a cover price of £6.

 

In the meantime the seemingly unstoppable juggernaut that is the Commando publishing schedule brings us the next four issues of Britain's last war comic which are available in newsagents from today.

Commando No 4555 – Operation: Horsa
Story: Alan Hebden
Art: Keith Page
Cover: Keith Page

Captain Mike Markham and his unit of Paras were part of a small striking force sent to neutralise a flotilla of E-boats menacing Allied shipping. But when problems with their glider saw them come down many miles from their objective they thought their role in the plan was over.

Little did they know they would still have a chance to do the job…though they would have to invent a new plan as they went along. They called it OPERATION: HORSA. 

Commando No 4556 – The Brink Of War
Story: Alan Hebden
Art: Vila
Cover: Janek Matysiak

For Panzergrenadier Otto Feldman the war ended in 1945 when, after escaping a ruthless Russian major who butchered his comrades, he surrendered to American forces.

Years later, as the Cuban Missile Crisis put the world on the brink of nuclear war, Otto was unexpectedly back in action. He and his young son, Gunther, were caught in the middle of a clash between British Centurion tanks and Russian T54s – not to mention an old enemy from the past… 

Commando No 4557 – Fog Of Doom

Originally Commando No 45 (November 1962)
Story: Eric Hebden
Art: Gordon Livingstone
Cover: Ken Barr

There were many who scoffed when it was said that the battlefield at Arras was haunted – haunted by the ghosts of the soldiers who had fought and died there in the First World War. But when the tide of battle in World War II flooded over the same ground, strange things happened. To the men who fought there it seemed as though the spirits of the glorious British dead had risen again and were fighting shoulder to shoulder with them in one of the most vicious actions of the whole war.

Introduction by Calum Laird, Editor

In the early years, Commando was confined to Second World War stories, other conflicts were out of bounds. Unless, of course, a clever author could shoehorn in a mention of, say, the First World War. Which is what Eric Hebden has done here, stitching together scenes from both conflicts with a nightmarish connection. 

His narrative is brought to life by two other Commando stalwarts ‑ Gordon Livingstone and Ken Barr. Livingstone’s strongly defined black and white work being a fantastic counterbalance to Barr’s almost ethereal use of colour on the front cover.

All in all a classic Commando.

Commando No 4558 – Saved From The Sea

Originally Commando No 2090 (May 1987)
Story: R.A. Montague
Art: J.M. Jorge
Cover: Ian Kennedy

The Supermarine Walrus – slow, lumbering and almost defenceless. Not much of a plane, you might think. But to the RAF Air/Sea Rescue service these aircraft were priceless, plucking flyers and sailors from the sea, often in atrocious weather. As the pilot of one of these remarkable boats, Ted Brewer took all this in his stride. But then the day came when he himself was in danger of drowning unless a Walrus came along to save his life!

Introduction by Scott Montgomery, Deputy Editor

The men of the RAF’s Air/Sea Rescue service did an amazing job, saving the lives of many downed flyers. This is a great tribute to their vital, perhaps overlooked, work and featuring stunning art from Jose Maria Jorge – quite rightly famed for his aircraft illustrations. But, as you will see, Jorge could draw anything and was equally adept at sea tales – what a fine example of his versatility.

Much like the heroes of the story, in its own quietly understated way, this is a classic from the Commando archives.

• 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

Convict Commandos back in action!

The latest issues of Commando, on sale this week in all good newsagents, include a new Convict Commandos story from Alan Hebden and the tale of a battle-hungry cook!

What more variety do you need? Here's the gen:

Commando No 4551: Hell's Cauldron
Writer: Alan Hebden Art: Benet Cover: Benet

Jelly, Titch and Smiler are back in action. Led by their "boss" Guy Tenby, the Convict Commandos are thrown into the middle of an assassination plot in Yugoslavia.

They're used to being kept in the dark by Guy but this time, even he doesn't seem to know what's going on. And that could have fatal consequences for all of them.

Commando No 4552: The Sergeant And The Squad
Writer: Ferg Handley Art: Olivera Cover: Janek Matysiak

He was a tough loner, a veteran of the war in Far East, a survivor of the terrors of the jungle and a hundred brutal fights against the Japanese. The last thing he wanted was to take a group of raw recruits under his wing.

To them, he was more a like a machine than a man and a killing machine at that – gruff, remorseless and cold. To them, he was the only man who could get them through the war.

But some of those rookies worried that they'd end up just like…The Sergeant!

Commando No 4553: Sky Ace
Originally Commando No 29 (July 1962)
Story: Maitland Art: Peter Ford Cover: Ken Barr

This is the inside story of two ace British fighter pilots, and the strange and deadly rivalry that drove them to outfly, outshoot and outdare each other through every risky second of their dog-fights with the mighty Luftwaffe.

They did things with fighters no aircraft were built to do, writing the story of their feuds with each other in the skies over Southern England in the flaming wreckage of dozens of Nazi planes. They became a legend in their own lifetimes.

Between these covers is their glorious story.

"I have no idea if Mr Maitland, who wrote this story, was ex-RAF, but he certainly gives the dialogue an authentic period feel," notes editor Calum Laird of this re-presented issue. "You feel as though you're part of a wartime squadron, drinking in the atmosphere.

"His efforts are aided and abetted by the efforts of Messrs Ford and Barr - Ford's very fine black and white work and Barr's bright, bold cover match the atmosphere of the story beautifully.

"Oh, and in case you're wondering, it's not just atmospheric, it's a cracking story too."

Commando No 4554: The Chef Who Went to War
Originally Commando No 2141 (December 1987)
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Denis McLoughlin Cover: Ian Kennedy

Stanley Simpson couldn't stand life in the Catering Corps. He desperately wanted to be a fighting soldier.

Well, the German Army was heading straight for the kitchen where Stan worked, so his first taste of action was going to come a lot sooner than he reckoned!

"Get ready for a delicious Commando caper," enthuse Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery of this story, "cooked up by a trio of talented Commando legends   our compliments to writer Alan Hebden, inside artist Denis McLoughlin and cover illustrator Ian Kennedy.

"Set against the run-up to Dunkirk, The Chef Who Went To War is classic Commando fare. It features a man who wants to get out of the kitchen and fight, as well as his cowardly mate who it seems, 'Can't cook, won't cook.' And, unfortunately, 'Can't fight, won't fight' either!
  
"You may want to take your time and savour this mouth-watering story. Or you may wish to bolt it all down quickly in one go. Either way, enjoy."

• 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.

Magic Merlins and a danger-prone 'Duck' just part of latest Commando line-up

Commando No 4539 - The Magic Merlin
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Morahin Cover: Ian Kennedy

As the Battle of Britain reached its climax, RAF Flying Officer Toby Mortimer was assigned a brand new MkII Hurricane. Toby's flying suddenly improved, and he got more kills in his new Hurri. But why?

Toby put it down to his new plane's Rolls-Royce Merlin XX - because its serial number exactly matched his date of birth! That engine became his good luck charm. He was sure that his life and the Merlin's were inexplicably linked.

Which was not such a good thing when another pilot had to take over his kite!

Commando No 4540 - The Duck That Went to War
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Jaime Forns Cover: Janek Matysiak

The DUKW, better known as the Duck, might not be as well-known as the Jeep but this amphibious truck was just as vital to winning the Second World War. Able to take supplies from ship to shore without needing a harbour it kept the fighting men supplied with bullets, bandages and bully beef.

This is the story of one such Duck and its crew of two. Together they got far closer to the action than you would expect for a floating lorry.

Question was, would they be able to get away again in one piece?

Commando No 4541 - Massacre In The Sun
Originally Commando No 28 (June 1962)
Story: Eric Castle Art: Gordon Livingstone Cover: Ken Barr

When the Japanese attacked, Corporal John Reynolds dived into the bushes. When he crawled out his two stripes had gone and on his shoulder he wore a Major's crown.

Always he had wanted to be an officer and now he was.

He might deceive the Japs, but could he fool the Chindit battalion he was called upon to lead?

Here is the strange story of the bogus major

"There are various themes which have featured in Commando more than once and here, Eric Castle weaves two of them together," notes editor Calum Laird of this reprint issue. "Talk about value for money! He has the soldier who just needs a chance to show his worth, and the private soldier who adopts an officer's rank. And they are one and the same man.

"If shades of John Wagner and Mike Western's Darkie's Mob abound in plot they also echo in the art - Gordon Livingstone's jungle is hot enough to feel, his Chindits have real stubble, while Ken Barr's cover captures fear and claustrophobia in the same instant."

Commando No 4542 - And Now Strike Back!
Originally Commando No 2106 (July 1987)
Story: Bill Fear Art: Ruiz Cover: Jeff Bevan

Ready to board their new ship, seamen Len Garret and Tom Brooks were stunned to discover that Chief Petty Officer Alf Edwards was on their crew. Having clashed with him many years before, they knew that life under his command would be far from easy.

However, in the following weeks they changed their minds. No longer did they think Alf was going to make things difficult - now they suspected he was trying to kill them!

"Conventional wisdom - as well as reader feedback - has it that of Commando's air, land and sea adventures, maritime stories are the least popular," reveals Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery. "Perhaps this is because the pace of a sea story is slower than those containing aerial dogfights or tank battles.

"However, this tale could belie all that - as it truly is action-packed from start to finish, with some great characters and memorable set-pieces.

"And staff artist Jeff Bevan excels once again with a wonderful cover. Look at that ship lurching in the water. It almost makes one a little seasick just looking at it!"

• 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.

Tank KIllers and Traitors lurk in latest Commando comics

There's a fine mix of old and new to the latest Commando releases, on sale today in all good newsagents and for iPad and other IOS devices.

Commando No 4535 - The Fighting Gendarme
Story: Peter Grehan Art: Olivera Cover: Janek Matysiak

A Gendarme, a French policeman. That's what Raoul Laurent was when World War II broke out. Sergeant Laurent decided he wasn't going to bow down before the occupying Nazis, escaping to England to join the Free French Forces and become a Commando.

In time, Raoul was selected for a dangerous mission back in his homeland, helping the French Resistance to locate and destroy vital coded documents that were in Nazi hands. To succeed, though, Raoul would have to rely upon an old adversary from his police days. Not only that, pretty soon it looked like his new allies had a traitor in their midst...

Commando No 4536 - The Tank-Killers
Story: Stephen Walsh Art: John Ridgway Cover: John Ridgway

Tank, panzer, char d'assault, tahk. Call them what you will, these armoured giants struck fear into all infantrymen who faced them in battle.

Not quite all, though. This is the story of four men brought together by the fates of war who challenged the metal monsters and called themselves... The Tank-Killers!

Commando No 4537 - Fly Fast Shoot First!
Originally Commando No 14 (December 1961)
Story: Peter Ford Art: Peter Ford Cover: Ken Barr

The machine-guns chattered their chant of death, the Spitfire spat its eight-forked tongues of flame - and from the wide blue sky tumbled another charred fragment of the once-mighty Luftwaffe.

Mike Arden was a flying fool: a pilot with only one fault. In his eagerness to get into a fight he left more than burned-out Nazis behind him - he left a trail of broken Spitfires too!

So they gave him a choice: Transfer to Coastal Command or stay on the ground.

Mike transferred - and did things with a four-engined bomber that had never been done before!

"I hope nobody minds that I've dipped into 1961 for a story to give a fresh airing but this one really does deserve to be seen again," notes editor Calum Laird of this latest representation of a classic story from Commando. "It's one of very few Commandos to have been written and drawn by the same person and it shows - some of the full-page illustrations which pepper this book are little masterpieces all on their own. If the narrative comes off second-best, it's only because the art treatment is so accomplished.

"Oh and there's no truth in the story that Ken Barr's excellent cover features a Spitfire only because we couldn't fit a Liberator in the space."

Commando No 4538 - Dakota Pilot
Originally Commando No 2087 (May 1987)
Story: Bill Fear Art: Terry Patrick Cover: Ian Kennedy

For Ben Smart, Dakota pilot, things had been going badly. Bad luck seemed to follow him wherever he went, and always managed to strike where it could do the most damage.

And this time, of all places, it had to be the terrible battle of Arnhem

"As usual, Ian Kennedy has done Commando proud with his stunning front cover," notes Depurty Editor Scott Montgomery, "producing an amazing image - a snapshot telling you everything you should expect from the story that appears in between the front and back pages.

"Aerial action and thrills abound, of course, but there's also a solid, character-driven story - by writer Bill Fear and interior artist Terry Patrick - about a pilot who believes he is jinxed and wonders if he's a danger to himself and his comrades.

• 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.

Jokers in the new Pack of Commandos

Here's the intel on the new Commando war comics, on sale now in all good British newsagents...

I recently had a chance to sit down with Commando editor Calum Laird as part of my working day and discuss the future of comics – and digital comics. While he was as canny as ever about Things to Come, I got hints of possible new Commando-related projects in the offing, with a promise of official news as soon as anything was confirmed. Can't wait!

Commando No 4531 - Coming Unstuck
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Carlos Pino Cover: Carlos Pino

 By 1943 the Germans, desperate to counter, the RAF's superfast wooden fighter-bomber, the de Havilland Mosquito, began to build the Focke Wulf Ta154. It was even known as the Moskito!

They soon discovered that holding its wooden structure together wasn't as easy as they thought, and several broke up in in flight. The glue they needed to hold their airframes together was a secret formula only manufactured in Britain.

So the Germans came up with a plan to steal some from the source…only to come up against a bunch of plucky Brits determined to stop them - or come to a very sticky end!

Commando No 4532 - Mario's Express
Story: Stephen Walsh Art: Vila Cover: Ian Kennedy

Colonel Mario Girotti was not really much of a soldier. He was more than happy to be stuck in the North African desert, in charge of a rarely-used railway station. He spent his days listening to classical music on his trusty gramophone or reading poetry.
 
But the culture-loving Italian's peaceful war was rudely interrupted by the arrival of a group of his fellow countrymen, followed by some Nazis, all bent on escaping the oncoming British onslaught with some looted priceless treasure and, naturally enough, they wanted one of Mario's trains.

Mario decided that maybe the time was right to fight after all!

Commando No 4533 - Blood Valley
Originally Commando No 49 (Dec 1962)
Story: Dorward Art: Philpott Cover: Ken Barr

Every path that led upwards from Blood Valley to the Nazi-held fortress of Cassino was a path of death. On these bullet-swept slopes many a hero had been born - and had died. But still the German flag flew triumphantly from the battlements.
 
And then the Commandos were sent for - hand-picked Commandos who had their own cunning and courageous ways of bringing arrogant Nazis to their knees.
 
Here is their heroic story.

“There's a saying that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but in this case it's exactly what you should do! Ken Barr's Commando is loaded with contained menace and pent-up ferocity,” says editor Calum Laird of this story. “Make no mistake, author Dorward is going to put a hard-hitting story in front of you with very few punches pulled. Those of a nervous disposition should look away now.
 
“The inside art, with Philpott's characteristic dark and brooding lines, backs up this hard edge. At times it's difficult to remind yourself that this really is fiction."

Commando No 4534 - The Jokers
Originally Commando No 2144 (December 1987)
Story: Peter Mackenzie Art: Keith Shone Cover: Ian Kennedy

Alf Cunningham and Percy Potter were the jokers in the pack. Oh, they were good pilots, all right, it was just that they had a nasty habit of landing themselves, and everyone around them, in deep trouble. Not exactly the best pair of men to rely on when there's a German cruiser on the loose in the English Channel!

“The main conflict in this European World War 2 tale is, naturally, between British and German forces,” notes deputy Scott Montgomery of this re-presented tale. “However, there is another conflict going on. One between a couple of rebellious RAF pilots - the “jokers” of the title - and a stuffed shirt Royal Navy officer who they manage to continually annoy.

"Commando thrives on extra story flourishes like this and author Peter MacKenzie keeps the narrative flowing well, as does artist Keith Shone. And, of course, kudos to veteran illustrator Ian Kennedy for yet another stunning aircraft cover - this time of an Avro Anson right in the thick of the action."

• 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.