Sgt. Rock Special
Reprinted from Hans von Hammer's landmark appearance in Showcase #57 (1965). Hans von Hammer faces intense psychological alienation from his own squadron. While his men view him as a cold-blooded executioner who hunts for sport, von Hammer wrestles with the harsh reality that he kills only out of survival duty. The story highlights his solitary bond with the black hunting wolf that visits him in the dark woods.
This special was released the same month as George Pratt's painted graphic novel Enemy Ace: War Idyll. DC used this anthology to re-introduce newer readers to the classic Kanigher/Kubert foundations of Hans von Hammer just as the character was receiving a major modern literary revival. Collectors seek out this issue for Rick Burchett's unique modern cover layout, which brings a clean, distinct look that stands out from Joe Kubert's traditional cover dominance over the character line.
