Unknown Soldier

"Killers of the Sky — A Coffin for Aces!"

Cover Date June 1982
Issue #264
Pages 8
Type Original Story
Cover Price 69¢
Also Featuring The Blind French Boy
Guest Characters Lt. Steve Savage (The Balloon Buster)

Synopsis

In the conclusion of this three-part series, the temporary truce ends and the brief moment of humanity shared by Lt. Steve Savage and Rittmeister Hans von Hammer shatters. Bound by the brutal demands of war, the two rivals engage in a final, unrestricted, and intense aerial battle, with Savage's suicidal diving tactics clashing against the Rittmeister's lethal, calculated skill. Their dogfight, which sees both machines tearing each other apart, is abruptly halted by shifting front lines and a swarm of Allied aircraft, forcing a chaotic separation. Although both legends survive to fly another day, the finale delivers a powerful, tragic anti-war message: despite their mutual respect, the savage skies dictate that they must remain enemies until the end.

Collector Notes

A key Bronze Age crossover, this 8-page feature highlights Robert Kanigher's focus on the brutality of war, with art by Dan Spiegle and coloring by Bob LeRose. The issue, featuring lettering by Esphid Mahilum, is a must-log for collectors tracking this definitive, emotional arc

Creative Team

Writer Robert Kanigher
Penciler Dan Spiegle
Inker Dan Spiegle
Letterer Esphid Mahilum