Friday, March 25, 2011

War Picture Library 99 Spearhead

Is a slight misunderstanding enough to condemn your fighting brothers? Well according to Major (later Lieutenant Colonel) Dawson it is more than enough. Dawson only has contempt for Americans after he misinterprets a comment from a large chinned American glider pilot.

Spearhead is a very well drawn, composed and animated story. Even though it's basically a shoot 'em up, bash with tash and dash affair the artwork is fantastic with great use of shadow and silhouette.

There's action in the air and on the beaches as glider airborne troops land in the sea and take direct fire from the enemy during the invasion of Sicily. A page or two then serve as a small respite to set the scene and reinforce Dawson's dislike of American pilots. He then only has his opinion confirmed by the introduction of American Airforce (and former bush pilot) Colonel Butch Gordon who is a loud mouthed, cigar chomping, sartorially challenged American pilot. Now with the scene set for some inter-allied animosity there's plenty of action. There's parachuting into Japanese held Burmese jungle to secure a clearing and build an airfield so more troops can arrive to win the war. So there's lots of opportunity for shooting, counter attacks, things to look grim and an arrggghh and aahhh or two.  The story ends with the inevitable reconciliation between should be friends.

No one is trying to get through a deep message or sneak through an agenda on the human condition in this story. This is purely what a pocket war comic should be - lots of action and a real page turner.





Big chinned Americans


Big panted Germans


That's one ugly German


Oh no! It looks like Cutter's bought it!


Smug Germans! Also lesson 23 for Bad Guys. Don't get call each other by your first names while you enjoy your work. It will only lead to a Mills 36 coming your way. 









That's right Karl - that's a Mills 36 coming your way.


Now! That's how you make an entrance!


That's how you wear a government issued suit - with crumpled style.


Itagaki is clearly an idiot.


Limb of Satan! I learn a new cuss everyday.


Check out Mr Muscles on the dozer.

What is wrong with that guy's hat?


Americans are very good at scooting around on their Jeeps and shooting up counter attacks.


Lessons for Bad Guys number 66. Don't forget when accepting the position of a sniper the golden rule is "hit and not be hit".


What a great tank picture. Can anybody help me out with what sort of tank it is?

2 comments:

  1. i would say the tank is the imperial japanese army type 95 ha-go light tank.primarily used to support infantry.if i was sitting in the front seat of the jeep.the g.i. with the browning automatic rifle would be walking.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Well picked up Anonymous. Thank you for pointing that out.

    ReplyDelete

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