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 Cover Prelims - Aerial Warfare

The Commando team, as well as managing to publish 104 issues of the comic each year, have been using the official Commando Comics Facebook page to give some behind the scenes info on their titles. This includes some of the preliminary sketches for their covers.

Writer Mac MacDonald covers a wide range of war themes for Commando but these two issues both featured aerial warfare and were assigned to artist Carlos Pino who provided both the internal B&W line art and the colour covers. The first image featured here shows how the title of a given issue of Commando can change even at the last moment as Issue 4584 started off as "Pilot In Peril" before becoming "American Ace".

 

Issue 4584 American Ace

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!
Free preview of American Ace

Issue 4599 Operation Nachthexen
The German forces that invaded the Soviet Union had much to fear once the Russians' fightback got into its stride. For the Russians are fearsome warriors when roused. What the Germans feared more than anything was the night. For that was when the Nachthexen - the night witches - flew. Because, you see, when the Nachthexen flew, they carried death on their wings.
Free preview of Operation Nachthexen


• 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.

Latest Commandos feature first ever female lead for title

Art by Carlos Pino © and courtesy of DC Thomson

Here's details of the latest Commando war comics, on sale now in all good newsagents - and in a first for the title, Operation Nachthexen features their first-ever female lead character – the first part of a trilogy.

Based on the online preview the story echoes some of the themes first featured in Battle's Johnny Red and veteran creator Carlos Pino delivers a strip that certainly echoes the look of that classic tale - but the story soon takes its own course.

(Russia's Nachthexen have of course been a rich source of stories for other war comics, including issues of Garth Ennis much-praised Battlefields, released by US publisher Dynamite, reviewed here on Comic Book Daily).

Commando No 4599 – Operation Nachthexen
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Carlos Pino Cover: Carlos Pino

The German forces that invaded the Soviet Union had much to fear once the Russians’ fightback got into its stride. For the Russians are fearsome warriors when roused.

But what the Germans feared more than anything was the night. For that was when the Nachthexen — the night witches — flew. Because, you see, when the Nachthexen flew, they carried death on their wings...

Art by Carlos Pino © and courtesy of DC Thomson

Nachthexen was the German nickname for the female military aviators of the Soviet Union Air Forces 588th Night Bomber Regiment, known later as the 46th "Taman" Guards Night Bomber Aviation Regiment. The regiment flew harassment bombing and precision bombing missions against the German military from 1942 to the end of the war, in nothing but wood and canvas Polikarpov Po-2 biplanes, a 1928 design intended for use as training aircraft and for crop-dusting.

At its largest size, the Regiment had 40 two-person crews and A Dance with Death: Soviet Airwomen in World War II notes they flew over 23,000 sorties and is said to have dropped 3,000 tons of bombs. The most highly-decorated female unit in the Soviet Air Force (and, indeed, one of the few female fighting forces during the war), each pilot had apparently flown over 1,000 missions by the end of the war and 30 of its members died in combat.

• Read a Preview on the official Commando web site

Commando No 4600 – Von Krieger’s Vendetta
Story: Bill Styles Art: Rezzonico Cover: Janek Matysiak

As the Germans rolled into Yugoslavia in 1941, with them came a particularly nasty Major by the name of Von Krieger. Arrogant and overbearing, he singled out one particular Yugoslav teenager as a particular target for his venom - Ancic Miro.

After an attempt on his life, he was determined to catch and kill Miro.

Ancic Miro, for his own part, was happy enough with that. After all, he had several personal reasons for meting out justice to Von Krieger...

The Axis invasion of Yugoslavia was another episode during World War 2 that proved catastrophic for the invaded as well as heroic rebellion from local partisans. The United States Holocaust Museum notes that more than 67,000 Jews were murdered on Yugoslav soil (including more than 3,500 Jews from other countries who had found refuge in Yugoslavia before the Axis invasion) between 1941 and 1945. Around 14,000 Jews survived, many by hiding with friends or neighbours or by joining the partisans. More than 4,500 Jews served in the partisan resistance movement; around 1,300 died in combat.

Approximately 27,000 Roma were also killed: the Ustasa, the Axis allies, killed about 20,000 at the Jasenovac camp system and perhaps as many as 6,000 more on the Croatian and Bosnian countryside. German military and police authorities shot most of the remainder, between 1,000 and 2,000, in Serbia.

After the war, many of the leaders of the German occupation authorities in Serbia were extradited to Communist-led Yugoslavia to stand trial.

• Read a Preview on the official Commando web site

Commando No 4601 – Rogue Bomber
Originally Commando No 88 (October 1963).
Story: Stainton Art: Sostres Cover: Ken Barr

R For Roger was her name... but the air-crews called her R for Rogue.

There was something sinister about this four-engined giant, something uncanny that made brave men shiver with fear when they had to fly in her. For every pilot who sat at her controls came back dead!

Night after night she sat there waiting… waiting for her next victim!

"It’s very hard to capture night scenes in black and white," feels editor Calum Laird, talking about this re-presented Commando tale. "With colour you can use deep blues to help define the scenes but with monochrome, objects and people are either there or they’re not.

"Our inside artist, Sostres, doesn’t have any problems with this though. His use of heavy blacks and broad, bold lines gives the impression of everything being seen in the darkness that bomber crews would have experienced in wartime skies.

“Add that to a brooding cover and a tale of a hoodoo plane — always a Commando favourite — and you have a 1963 winner."

• Read a Preview on the official Commando web site

Commando No 4602 – A Traitor In The Cockpit
Originally Commando No 2199 (July 1988), re-issued as No 3675 (December 2003)
Story: Ken Gentry Art: Gordon Livingstone Cover: Jeff Bevan

The roar of four mighty Merlin engines powering each Lancaster, the crump of flak bursting close to the planes, the rumble of bombs exploding far below — it was all in a night’s work for the bomber boys.

But for one Lancaster crew, on one particular night, things were going to be different — because their pilot intended to land at an enemy airfield and hand his aircraft and its secret equipment over to the enemy.

"It's been said that espionage stories are not ideally suited to Commando’s text-and-pictures format and to some extent this is true.,” notes deputy editor Scott Montgomery of A Traitor in the Cockpit. "Cloak-and-dagger antics usually require a great deal of thought balloons for characters to explain the twisty-turny plot.

"However, this book blows that theory out the (cockpit) window — because it’s a thrilling air espionage adventure tale that just never lets up, populated by plucky British spies, tough Resistance men and nasty Nazis. Fantastic stuff, we hope you agree."

• Read a Preview on the official Commando web site

• 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.

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.

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.

Pigeons, Phantoms and Piracy - all in new Commandos!

Attention! Due to enemy sabotage, news of the latest Commando comics was temporarily lost in action, but we're pleased to announce, now, the latest issues on sale in all good newsagents.

Proceed immediately to your high street, corner shop or iPad and purchase! That is all.

Commando No 4547 – The Pigeon Patrol
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

As the First World War raged around him, Lieutenant Kenny Dean cast his eyes skywards at the sound of any aero engine. The one thing he really wanted to do was to get into the air, but he would have settled for anything to do with flying.

So he should have been happy when his CO posted him to a flying unit? Shouldn’t he? Maybe not, for The Pigeon Patrol was not quite what he had in mind...

Commando No 4548 – Grand Slam!
Story: Alan Hebden Art: Carlos Pino Cover: Carlos Pino


In 1995 an English historian discovered a mystery that had been hushed up for fifty years – with hidden airfields, commando raids, and deadly dogfights over the Himalayas. And, ultimately, there was a daring mission involving Lancaster B1 Specials carrying lethal, ton-ten Grand Slam bombs – the biggest and most powerful of World War II.

It certainly is an amazing tale. One that has remained top secret… until now.

Commando No 4549 – Phantom Fighters
Originally Commando No 46 (September 1962)
Story: Peter Ford Art: Peter Ford Cover: Ken Barr

Out of the sun the Hurricanes roared down on the Luftwaffe’s unsuspecting squadrons like eagles upon their prey. All over the Western Desert they struck – airfields, convoys, enemy fighter patrols – no German was safe. They swooped, fought and killed – only to disappear, flitting away at zero feet among the sand dunes, vanishing from the sight of men like ghost planes.

Terror reigned in German hearts whenever the high-pitched scream of power dives warned of the coming of the… Phantom Fighters!

"A lot of the early Commando stories were set in the jungle of in the Western Desert," notes comic editor Calum Laird, "like this one.

"What the two settings have in common is that the men at the centre of the stories are away from any real command structures so they can behave like pirates, wreaking havoc on their enemies.

"Peter Ford – the artist and the author – takes full advantage of the set-up and adds spice by throwing a potential traitor into the mix of flying action.

"You wouldn’t have guessed that from Ken Barr’s breakneck cover, but you’ll enjoy it just the same."

Commando No 4550 – Skull And Crossbones
Originally Commando No 2127 (October 1987)
Story: Bernard Gregg Art: Ibanez Cover: Jeff Bevan

Most U-boat captains were honourable men, but not this one. As his submarine pulled away from the burning hulk of the British ship he broke one of the rules of warfare – he machine-gunned the defenceless men in the water.

Those sailors who survived would never forget the emblem on the side of that U-boat…a red shield with a skull and crossbones.

"When we first see our hero, engineer extraordinaire Charlie Shepherd, we can almost feel the oily claustrophobia of his ship’s engine room – Ibanez’s inks are as thick and black as the very oil that powers the vessel," notes Commando deputy editor Scott Montgomery.

"It’s a tough seafaring tale, this one. However, thanks to author Bernard Gregg, the sadistic cruelty of the main Nazi villain is neatly balanced by the appearance of a humane German E-boat officer, giving the story – which cleverly changes tack two thirds of the way through – even more depth (pun intended, apologies).

• 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.

Commandos by Air, Land and Sea!

Every field of combat is covered in the latest batch of Commandos, on sale now in good newsagents (don't bother with the bad ones). Here's the rundown...

Commando No 4519: High Speed Rescue
Story: Mac MacDonald Art: Rezzonico Cover: Janek Matysiak

Growing up in Malaya, young Sam Logan dreamed of being a pilot. He volunteered for the RAF as soon as war broke out -- only to be washed out of flying training thanks to the dizziness that overcame him every time he took to the air.

He ended up on an RAF Air-Sea Rescue Launch, patrolling the choppy grey waters of the Channel. Almost as much as he did himself, Sam’s crewmates wondered if the reluctant sailor was up to this dangerous work. Their very survival depended on him working as part of a team... especially when there were E-boats on the prowl.

Commando No 4520 Underwater Menace
Story: Mac Macdonald Art: Keith Page Cover: Keith Page

Ken Kluger, son of a Japanese mother and a German father, had attended university in England and was fluent in all three languages. When war broke out, though, he ended up working for the British as a translator and code-breaker.

Soon, however, he found himself involved in much more dangerous work. He became part of a perilous plan was to use a captured German submarine -- holding a lethal secret weapon -- to destroy an enemy U-boat pen and stop a deadly attack!

Commando No 4521: Death In The Sun
Story: Eric Castle Art: Garcia Cover: Ken Barr
First appeared: Commando No 13 (December 1961)

Just another routine patrol, just another empty village in the Burmese jungle. Nothing to fear, every hut silent, deserted, no movement in the shadows, no sound on the still, sultry air. Everything calm and peaceful.

Why then did fingers tighten nervously on triggers, why did the cold sweat of fear break out on every man’s brow? It was as if some sixth sense was telling them of terrible danger, of a fiendish trap waiting to be sprung.

It only needed one man to see the sudden glint of death in a darkened doorway, to scream a warning... a warning that came too late!

"I hope nobody minds that we’ve slipped back into 1961 for this story,” says Calum Laird, Commando Editor, “making it 51 years old instead of just 50. Once you’ve read it you’ll see why we didn’t want to let this one get away. A fortune-teller’s prophecy, good friends at each other’s throats and the constant menace of death without warning. Oh, and a twist in the tail. This is classic Commando fare.

“Once you’ve opened Ken Barr’s menacing cover, Garcia’s art is full of action -- check out page 11 for just one -- pushing the story forward at a breathless pace.

“So, will our hero live or die? Find out inside.”

Commando No 4522 The Old Wolf
Story: R.A. Montague Art: Keith Shone Cover: Ian Kennedy
First appeared in Commando No 2112 (August 1987)

By nineteen-forty-four Allied pilots saw the Junkers 87 as an easy kill. Too slow and sluggish, they said, to pose a threat.

But Colonel Otto von Arne had plans for his aircraft. By adding rockets to assist take-off and extra machine guns for defence, he made sure that once again his squadron was a force to be reckoned with -- especially when they were also armed with powerful 37mm guns.

“Commando is often dismissed -- usually by people who haven’t read it for decades -- as being full of cardboard cut-out characters who only bark clichés like ‘For you the war is over!’” notes Commando Deputy Editor Scott Montgomery. “German characters, in particular, are too easily stereotyped like this so let’s meet Colonel Otto von Arne -- AKA ‘The Old Wolf’.

“Although is Otto clearly the antagonist, he’s no goose-stepping Nazi. In fact, he’s intelligent, brave, chivalrous and also respected by his British counterparts -- a fully-rounded character. And that’s really what Commando is all about.”

• 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