AAFES, Marvel roll out collaborative issue of comic book

DALLAS — The Army and Air Force Exchange Service and Marvel Custom Solutions on Thursday announced the 13th collaborative issue of an “Avengers” comic book, available only through AAFES locations.

Marvel and AAFES have printed 1 million copies of the free comic book and currently are available at Exchange stores worldwide while supplies last.

“These comic books are a great medium for us to show our appreciation and gratitude for U.S. service members,” stated Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson, senior enlisted adviser for AAFES. “This particular story is one of duty, integrity, loyalty and courage, something all soldiers and airmen can personally connect with.”

“All of us here at the House of Ideas greatly respect and admire the actions that the men and women of the U.S. military perform every day to ensure our freedom,” Marvel Custom Solutions editor Bill Rosemann said. “The world saw the 'Avengers' assemble in the record-breaking movie, but now only the real-world heroes of the military get to enjoy this all-new, action-packed adventure by the all-star creative team including writer William Harms, penciler Tom Raney and cover artist Alan Davis.”

The 22-page story tells the tale of a message intercepted by mercenary squad Serpent Society, stating that a package of unknown contents is being transported from Afghanistan to America by Sgt. Joe Wilton. As a group of soldiers, along with Wilton, are returning home from deployment at the Atlanta International Airport, the Serpent Society attacks, seeking the case which they believe will grant them a fortune.