My 10 Favorite: G.I. Joe Comic Book Covers of the First 30 Issues
June 1982, a moment in time for Gen Xers that lives in pop culture and collector infamy, the release of the first G.I. Joe comic book – G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero.
The beginnings of the toy line date back to February 1, 1964, in the 12-inch version. Thanks to the success of Star Wars action figures, Hasbro relaunched the toy line in 1982, scaling down to 3.75-inch figures. Along with the popular toy line, fans could follow the missions of the Joes in paper and animated form.
The Marvel Comics line was published from 1982 until 1994, covering 155 issues before other publishing companies and spinoffs picked up the special missions.
In Part 1 of a four-part series covering all 155 releases, a look at the 10 best covers of the first 30 issues.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #1
Where it all begins, General Flagg sends in the G.I. Joe team to rescue America’s top nuclear physicist, Dr. Adele Burkhart, from the terrorist group ran by Cobra Commander hiding out in the Caribbean.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #27 – Snake Eyes the Origin: Part II
From a showdown in the Florida Everglades to more revelations of Snake Eyes’ past, the cover doesn’t get much better than an epic subway fight between Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #21 – “The Most Unusual G.I. Joe Story Ever!!” – Silent Interlude
Can Snake Eyes successfully attack Destro’s castle to save Scarlett?
First Appearances: Storm Shadow, C.L.A.W., the Red Ninjas, and the Silent Castle.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #22 – Like Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust
General Flagg’s funeral is the next target for Destro and Cobra Commander. Destro, lording over the chess pieces of the Joes, is a menacing sight.
First appearances: Duke and Roadblock. Vehicle: Rattler
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #7 – Walls of Death
The Joes and the October/Oktober Guard are surrounded by Cobra. Betrayal and double-crosses… was it all for nothing?
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #4 – Operation Wingfield!
The imagery of the Joes coming at you in full force, captures the bravery of the team and gives the reader the point of view of being attacked by Hawk, Grunt, Snake Eyes, and the crew.
First appearances: Shary Wingfield, Vance Wingfield, and Captain Carruthers.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #14 – Destro Attacks
The small town of Springfield is the focal point of the showdown between the Cobras and the Joes. Biochemical warfare is the center of this battle.
First appearances: Ace, A.P.C., Skystriker, and Whirlwind.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #11 – The Pipeline Ploy!
Fans of the comic book can track the Joes from being in the small town of Springfield, on the beach, in the forest, and now in the snow – anywhere trouble lurks, the Joes will be there battling.
First appearances: Destro as the Specialist, Gung-Ho, Snow Job, Wild Bill, and Doc.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #16 – Night Attack
Hand-to-hand combat, in all places – Vermont. Cobra’s scheme, poison money. Cobra and Destro are at odds, Major Bludd takes Destro’s spot next to Cobra.
First appearances: Tripwire, Major Bludd, and Cover Girl. Vehicles: Wolverine and Dragonfly XH-1.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #20 – Home is Where War is
Any affinity for Clutch, the cover makes the reader want to pick up the issue for all the details. Could be titled the “Clutch Issue.”
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