An in depth history of Ace superheroes and the publishing company behind them is available in Roy Thomas’ Alter Ego #144 and can be purchased by clicking on this link.

If you’re not familiar with Alter Ego or the other TwoMorrows’ publications about the history of comic books they’re well worth checking out.

The Ace superheroes of the Golden Age first appeared in comic books in 1940, published by a fellow named A. A. Wyn, who began his career editing and then producing pulp magazines. He fleshed out his comic book line with three titles: Sure-Fire Comics (which soon became Lightning Comics), Banner Comics and Super-Mystery Comics. Our Flag Comics was added with the patriotic fervor emerging in America in 1941. A final title, Four Favorites, featured the leading heroes of the other titles. Wyn soon discovered that no one Ace hero was successful enough to warrant his own magazine. But it’s also clear that Wyn’s “magnetic man” was the one that best captured the reader’s imaginations. Magno became the cover feature of what would be Ace’s two longest running titles: Super-Mystery and Four Favorites.

The Ace Universe of the 1940s was one where primordial power and fundamental principles were often personified in its heroes. The courage to persevere and the spirit of fallen soldiers were made material and real in the figures of Captain Courageous and the Unknown Soldier. A foundling with an American flag birthmark began with no clear identity and became the Flag. Even as an adult, the birthmark tingled when injustice is near. As principles made flesh, they had no need for alternative identities. As the descendent of a god, neither did the fiery Vulcan. Magno, who controled magnetic force, had no demonstrable life other than his heroic pursuits. Mythic forces could be centralized in symbolic objects. A descendent of King Arthur became the Sword by pulling his fabled namesake from a boulder.

With mythic good so well represented, perhaps it was inevitable that mythic evil was too. The Ace Universe of the forties was filled with well delineated villains, colorful and formidable. The maniacal Clown (Magno’s arch enemy) was singularly evil, turning even on criminal allies with disturbing ease. Ace villains were often legendary figures of horror: the Mummy, the Were-Wolf, Invisible Man and a Japanese vampire known only as Drako-Saki. From King Arthur’s time came Faye Morgana. Other femme fatales included the turbaned Zora, the half-faced Nadya and the vicious Madame Death. The corrupt values of the Axis was best personified by Captain Courageous’ dark twin, the hook-handed Captain Nippo. This was the nature of the Ace of Spades Universe, principles and powers engaged in an energetic struggle with their opposites.  

Female heroes failed to find firm footing in this decidedly masculine universe. The only real super-heroine was Lash Lightning’s partner, Lightning Girl. One of the Three Cheers was a woman and Sue of Bert and Sue represented one half of a crime-solving couple. Kay McKay was a patriotic air hostess. That was all. Even romantic interests for Ace heroes were in short supply. Here, it was the battle that was everything. Emotional distractions were little tolerated. Adolescent heroes fared only somewhat better. Magno’s Davey and the Lone Warrior’s Dicky represented kid sidekicks. The Sword and the Lancer were a pair of adolescent heroes. Paul Revere and his pals, Patrick Henry and Betsy Ross, were the closest thing to a kid gang in the Ace Universe. With names like that, you could be sure they challenged the enemies of America.

As for ethnic diversity, Buckskin’s grandfather was an Indian scout. Mr. Risk’s South Asian associate—Abdul—was also quite formidable. More often, villains represented ethnicity in a negative way. Captain Nippo has already been mentioned. The sinister El Buff Ali-Rugg was half-Japanese and half-Muslim. Another Captain Courageous villain, the Japanese Shinto Samurai, reformed, but unfortunately was never again seen.

When super-heroes first began to drop out of sight, Super-Mystery became home to stories of non-powered detectives, Mr. Risk first among their number. Four Favorites, for its part, became a teen humor comic book. Ace heroes disappeared entirely in 1948, though A. A. Wyn continued to publish a number of romance, crime and horror titles through 1956.

Profiles of Ace Superheroes

CAPTAIN COURAGEOUS

Secret Identity: No alternative identity.

Origin: A supernatural entity personifying courage, called upon by humanity in times when brave men and women need inspiration to persevere.

Powers: Possesses the powers of flight and extraordinary strength. Can dwell underwater without aid of oxygen.
Appearance: Wears a red, white and blue costume with a light blue star eye mask sewn unto his cowl. With Four Favorites 22, Captain Courageous adopts the uniform of an ordinary naval officer.

Modus Operandi: “To the omnipresent Captain Courageous come the urgent message, for whenever brave men and women ask for courage, he never fails to hear!”

Friends and Allies:

Shinto Samurai.  The soul of an ancient samurai warrior is restored to life within a body constructed from multiple body parts, all under the watchful eye of Captain Nippo (see below). The Samurai turns on his creators when he experiences the inherent goodness of Captain Courageous. Four Favorites 16 (1944).

Notable Adversaries:

Captain Nippo. Japanese patriot whose right hand has been replaced by a barbed hook. An excellent fighter, Nippo wears a form-fitting green uniform with a rising sun insignia on his chest and the forehead of his mask. He fights the Unknown Soldier on numerous occasions, once leading a band of man-eating white apes against the hero, as told in Four Favorites 10. Even after the war, Caption Nippo is “still battling the despised conquerors of his aggressor nation.” By this time, Captain C may have given up his colorful uniform, but the muscular Nippo has not. In Four Favorites 23, Nippo manages to escape capture, but the end caption promises that in the next issue “Captain Courageous sets out to bring Captain Nippo to trial before the war crime commission!” Nipppo does indeed end up standing trial and after over a dozen struggles with Courageous hangs by the neck for his war crimes. Four Favorites 9-14, 16-18, 20-24 (1943-46).

El-Buff-ali-Rugg.  “The Half-Caste! Half Muslem, Half Jap, combining all the evil reatures of both races,” el-Buff-ali-Rugg wields a knife to deadly effect. Dressed in Asian-style shirt and trousers, he attempts to take control of India by obtaining the “symbol of the eternal kingdom.” Legend has it that possession of the artifact grants its owner invulnerability. Four Favorites 15 (1944).

The Swami. “Notorious spiritualist and mystic.” The turban-wearing psychic gets high praise from none other than Captain Nippo, who declares him “one of the most dangerous men alive to the safety of the United States!” While the Swami pretends to use a crystal ball to predict the future, he’s not adverse to using a blackjack or resorting to kidnapping if it serves his purpose. Four Favorites 17 (1945).

Sightings: Banner Comics 3-5; Captain Courageous 6; Four Favorites 5-28

Active: 1941-1947

LASH LIGHTNING

Secret Identity: Robert Morgan, archeologist and explorer. AKA “Flash” Lightning, at first, and just Lightning in his last adventures.

Origin: Possesses power over lightning, which he obtained from an ancient Egyptian mystic wise man in order to combat evil.

Powers: Able to fly, travel at the speed of lightning, emit bolts of lightning, generate electrical heat and track the residual electric traces of his partner, Lightning Girl. Being struck by lightning only regenerates him.

Appearance: Red form-fitting shirt and trunks with green leggings and brown gloves and boots. Lash sports a triangular insignia with three lightning bolts emerging from it on his chest.

Modus Operandi: Seeks out criminals and saboteurs as they cross his path. Aided in his later adventures by the Lightning Girl.

Friends and Allies:

Old Man of the Pyramids. Ancient Egyptian mystic who grants Lash his powers and appears several times thereafter to help him (1940).

The Lightning Girl.  AKA Isobel Blake, reporter for the Daily Ledger and Morgan’s romantic interest. Morgan and she meet when they both pretend to be Axis spies, Isobel in order to get a lead on who framed her father and uncle as saboteurs (as told in Lightning v3/1). She obtains lightning powers from Morgan when, too weak after torture to complete a mission, he infuses Isobel’s body with massive doses of electrical energy. The two heroes can track the location of the other through the “lightning impulses” each leaves behind. Lightning Comics v3/1; Four Favorites 6, 8-22 (1942-46).

Notable Adversaries:                                   

Dark Eyes and Madame Death. Dark Eyes is a handsome, thickly built fellow, “powerful enough to kill a steer with one blow of his fist.” Arrogant, he describes himself as “the greatest, strongest, best rod-man and gunsel that ever lived.” He is also very intelligent and recognizes the hard to beat synergy created by the male/female dynamic of the Lightning team. In order to match it, Dark Eyes seeks out a partnership with the lovely Madame Death, a dark-haired scam artist and murderess who brags about the time she shot down a dozen cops in cold blood. Later, Dark Eyes briefly teams up with the Maestro in an effort to break out of jail and rescue Madame D, the woman who may well have been his lover. Four Favorites 13-15 (1944).

The Eel. Professor Aqua becomes frustrated by the limitations of circus life (he is billed as “the human fish—the only person who can eat, drink, and live underwater”) and becomes the Eel. When submerged in water, the Eel possesses “terrible super strength.” The Eel wears a black diving suit, cowl and goggles with lighter-colored gloves. His name is derived from the electric shock gun he wields to potent effect. Lightning 12 (1942).

The Maestro. Born Wilbur Justus, this concert violinist first discovers a way to use his music to hypnotize bees into obeying him, and later human beings, including the hapless Lightning Girl. Wealthy businessmen feel compelled to sign over their fortunes to him. The Maestro quickly gives up his black and yellow striped shirt and ersatz wings to dress formally, with a top hat that he wears over his long hair. The villain is assisted on different occasions by Dark Eyes and the Headsman, a hunchbacked torturer of vicious disposition. Four Favorites 9, 10, 12, 14 (1943-44).

The Mastermind. Brilliant creator of a machine that gives this villain powers over lightning similar to that of Lash himself. The Mastermind, whose eyes glow eerily, can also teleport himself to other locations at will by using his “electrical condenser.” By his third encounter with Lightning he had developed a serum that “can make the mind and ear of any man obey my voice alone.” He uses this ability to take command of an entire army base.” The Mastermind works for the Nazis, going so far in one appearance to display a swastika on his shirt. Lightning 7-10 (1941-42).

The Mummy. By soaking cloth wrappings in radium, Professor Vatz becomes the Mummy, impervious to harm as well as looking very frightening. In Lightning Comics 7, the Mummy teams with the Mastermind, who tries to unlock the secret of his power. When the two have an argument, the Mastermind kills him. Lightning 5-7 (1941).

The Teacher. The Teacher, a “freelance espionage expert” and “master killer for the highest bidder,” has invented electro-hypnosis as a way of turning loyal Americans against their country, including Adam and John Blake, the father and uncle of Isobel Blake. A grotesque figure with a bloated face riddled with warts, the Teacher wears a robe and mortar board with sash and arrogantly declares the lesson taught by each of his successful maneuvers. He nearly defeats Lash Lightning, who needs to create Lightning Girl to insure the villain’s defeat. He reappearance is boasted for the next issue of Lightning Comics, which unfortunately was never published. Lightning v3/1 (1942).

The Toad. This villain apparently was born with green scaly skin, webbed feet and hands and a propensity for leaping. Known to his associates as the Toad, he prefers to be called by his surname, Weston. Weston engages in a vicious campaign of intimidation, seeking to force Congress into outlawing free speech. With the aid of a machine provided by the Axis, the Toad can send bolts of electricity over the sound waves to kill anyone who says something of which he disapproves and has killed millions in just this fashion. Four Favorites 7 (1942).

The Vulture. The Vulture, a deranged scientist named Larkin, steals from his patriotic half-brother blueprints for a flame gun and a formula that can create an impenetrable purple fog that can be solidified into a wall. As the Vulture, he operates out of “the Black City in the Sky.” He is shirtless with bare legs, wearing a wing-like cloak that allows him to fly and that can withstand any force. His niece, Linda Larkin, joins Lightning in opposing him. Lightning 11 (1942).

The Were-Wolf. Adolf “Wolf” Krimetz was teased as a young cadet by his fellows because of his wolflike features. Enraged, he accidentally killed one of his classmates and retreated into the mountains, “nursing hate, vengeance and rebellion at his fate.” Years later, his classmates have become generals and Krimetz sets out to kill them. Inexpicably, this commitment prompts him to turn into a wolf-man from the waist up, a transformation he is able to control. As the Were-Wolf, Krimetz possesses wolf-like attributes (superior strength, agility and fierceness). To cover his lower half he wears animal hides for trunks and boots. In his human form, Krimetz affects a yellow cape over a business suit, which he sheds at the time of transformation. Four Favorites 1-2, 4-5 (1941-42).

Sightings: Sure Fire Comics 1-3; Lightning Comics 4-13; Four Favorites 1-22

Active: 1940-46

MAGNO

Secret Identity: No secret identity.

Origin: Magno’s origins are never revealed.

Powers: “Mysterious and mighty, Magono is able to draw to himself anything of metal. In addition,he can jurl himself through space, attracted by anything metallic.”  

Appearance: The hero wears red form-fitting trunks, shirt and boots, with a yellow cape and blue leggings and gloves.

Modus Operandi: Accompanied by his young ally, Davey, Magno apparently has no other interests or occupation other than the pursuit of criminals and saboteurs.

Friends and Allies:

Davey. A youthful aide to Magno, Davey Landis is infused with temporary magnetic powers just like his when the hero holds his wrist. Later, his magnetic powers appear to become permanent. Davey is first introduced in Super-Mystery v1/4 with his sister, who’s investigating a case Magno’s already on, and is the hero’s junior partner thereafter (1940-46).

Beatrice Landis. Davey’s attractive older sister, Beatrice is a private detective. It is she who sews Davey a “Magno suit” when his hero worship becomes apparent. She appears as a potential romantic interest in Magno’s earlier adventures. Super-Mystery v1/4-2/3 (1940-41).

Pat Bradley. Heiress and daughter of a newspaper publisher who was brutally murdered by the Clown. While engaged to another man at the time of her father’s death, Pat begins to spend a lot of time with Magno and Davey. Super-Mysteryv3/3-5 (1943).

The Five who Walk with Death. A group of everyday Mexican men and women who serve as brutally-effective protectors of their city. Even so, the Clown manages to kill two of them for interfering with his plans before Magno stops him. It seems likely the group will choose two new members to perpetuate their mission. Super-Mystery v3/4 (1943).

Notable Adversaries:

The Black Puma. This Nazi agent and saboteur utilizes death traps. He wears a cat-ear cowl, cape and form-fitting costume. Four Favorites 7 (1942).

The Clown.  Maniacal master criminal and scientist who dresses in a yellow and green clown suit, black eye mask and white face makeup. The Clown possesses exceptional strength and agility and seems almost supernaturally able to recover from seemingly fatal injuries. In his earlier battles with Magno, the villain can also leap great distances, as long as he is “covered with degravitating solvent.” Something of a scientist, the Clown sometimes treats his weapons with a demagnetizing fluid. Magno’s arch foe later utilizes deadly death sprays and intelligent rats to commit crimes. Most memorably, the Clown once tries to surgically open up a conscious Magno to discover the secret of his magnetic powers. He also uses a “mentabelt” in Super-Mystery v2/1 to turn Davey into his slave. He makes the youth wear a matching clown suit as they fight Magno together. The Clown often surrounds himself with underworld lowlife like Old Annie or the brutish Jock or, on one occasion, mesmerized a beautiful woman to be his slavish assistant. He is extremely treacherous and often kills (or attempts to kill) criminal allies once their usefulness to him has ended. He also murders heroic individuals such as Pat Bradley’s publisher father and two members of the mysterious “Five who Walk with Death.” Super-Mystery v1/5-2/3, v3/2-v4/5, v5/3; Four Favorites 8-18 (1940-45).

The Cobra. A Nazi agent, the Cobra wears a green-scaled costume and hood, set off by a red cape. His clawed gloves are filled with poison. His initial scheme involves sending out his Cobra squadron of warplanes from his secret domestic air base to bomb coastal American cities. Super-Mystery v2/4-3/1 (1941-42).

The Hook. This “notorious Nazi sabotage leader” wears a yellow cape over his business suit and possesses a hook instead of a right hand. The Hook is able to create pseudo-men out of wax that can be melted back when their task is completed. Four Favorites 4 (1942).

The Hun. Born Hans Attila, the Hun is a direct descendent of the original Attila. The Hun is a Nazi agent and scientist, creating a suit of armor that protects him from any weapon (though he inexplicably wears no helmet to protect his head) and a U-ray gun that has the power to paralyze. Four Favorites 3 (1942).

Professor Octopus. Octopus is a bald, Japanese man who possesses four arms and wields a samurai sword. He sports a Fu Manchu mustache and wears round glasses and a traditional oriental robe. Octopus is also the captain of a high-powered submarine. Four Favorites 1 (1941).

Zora. This austere, turban-wearing beauty boldly approaches the Clown: “I am Zora! For a long time I’ve admired you and your struggle with Magno. I wish to join you!” When the Clown declines, Zora demonstrates her special spray gun on his servant, Jock, which temporarily blinds and then knocks him out. “I am a superior woman just as you are a superior man, Clown. I am a highly trained chemist and, like you, wish to get revenge on the world for the way it has treated me and my inventions.” Zora is also skilled at disguise, successfully impersonating Davey’s sister to further the duo’s cause. The Clown ultimately betrays Zora, faking a suicide that allows him to escape capture, but also appears to cause her actual death. Super-Mystery v2/3 (1941).

Sightings: Super-Mystery Comics v1/1-5/5; Four Favorites 1-26

Active: 1940-46

MR. RISK

Secret Identity: Real name unknown.

Origin: Mr. Risk was born without the ability to experience fear. He decides to use his resulting daring to help others in need.

Abilities: Risk is an excellent detective and fighter.

Appearance: Risk sports a mustache and dresses in a conventional business suit. No mask.

Modus Operandi: Mr. Risk is an adventurer who seeks out danger on behalf of others. “My business is to take chances you are afraid to take. Don’t worry about money. No fee. Call Dangerfield 7-7777 and ask for Mr. Risk.” Later his number changed to Dangerfield 1313.

Friends and Allies:

Abdul. Mr. Risk’s turbaned companion and servant, presumably from British India. He is exceptionally strong, intelligent and a good fighter. He is instrumental to the resolution of most of Mr. Risk’s cases.

Notable Adversaries:

The Cougar. Secretly Fritz Martin, a blackmailer and “local criminal.” Dresses like a black cat (complete with tail and poisonous claws). Is run over by an ambulance and apparently at the end of a life-and-death struggle with Mr. Risk. Super-Mystery v4/1 (1944).

Mr. Meek. Mild-mannered killer who expresses regret over violence even as he orders his gang to perpetrate milder versions of it. Ordered Meek: “We’ll hold their heads under water until they drown, gently and accidentally.” In arranging Mr. Risk’s death, he ordered his men to tie him to a bed as he wanted his “last moments to be comfortable.” Super-Mystery v3/6 (1943).
Nadya Burnett. While attempting to steal the Ghulsian diamond, the beautiful and vain Burnett is severely scarred by a falling light, the left side of her face now misshapen. Burnett continues her criminal career, but now tries to destroy the looks of others with acid. Apparently falls to her death at the end of her first encounter with Mr. Risk. Super-Mystery v4/2 (1944).

The Shoeshine Boy. Bald midget disguised as a bootblack, unbeknownst to his jockey customers, uses slow-acting acid on their shoes to eat away at their feet. He turns out to be a bookie trying to insure that bets went his way. Super-Mystery v3/3 (1943).

Sightings: Our Flag Comics 5; Super-Mystery Comics v3/2-v8/6; Four Favorites 10; Mr. Risk 7, 2; Men Against Crime 3; reprints: Crime Must Pay the Penalty 46, Trapped! 3.

Active: 1942-51

The RAVEN

Secret Identity: Detective Sergeant Danny Dartin,.

Origin: No origin is ever provided.

Abilities: No extraordinary powers but is a good fighter.
Appearance: Wears a purple cape and mask, but otherwise dresses conventionally in a suit. Initially his cape is large enough to envelop his entire body, but gradually becomes a more conventional size.

Modus Operandi: Steals from thieves to give to the poor or to return items to their original owners. Wanted by the police.

Friends and Allies:

Captain Lash. Chief of Police, Dartin’s superior, and Lola’s father. Lash seeks to arrest the vigilante crime-fighter.

Lola Lash. Dartin’s fiancee. Knowing her father’s frustration at being unable to catch the Raven, she tells Danny that she will only marry him when he’s “a good enough detective to catch the Raven.” She gradually suspects and later learns Danny’s secret identity. She is the daughter of the Chief of Police.

Mike Collins. Danny Dartin’s driver, personal assistant, and best friend, Collins knows his boss’ other identity and helps him fight crime.

Notable Adversaries:

The Eel. “The slipperiest jewel thief in Europe,” the Eel is a master of disguise. While in America, he operates out of a secret hideout in a cemetery masoleum. No relation to Lash Lightning’s foe. Lightning 12 (1942).

The Lizard. “Like an evil, slimy monster from a prehistoric swamp, the Lizard climbs reptile-like” up any wall of his choosing. The Lizard is somewhat overweight and is clad in a green scaled costume with sharp, clawed gloves. He utilizes a pet gila monster with a deadly bite; the gila monster ultimately turns on its master, thus ending the criminal’s life. Lightning 13 (1942).

Sightings: Sure-Fire Comics 1-3; Lightning Comics 4-13; Four Favorites 1-4

Active: 1940-42

The SWORD

Secret Identity: Arthur Lake, a descendent of King Arthur.

Origin: When traveling in England, the adolescent Lake (weak in body but strong in spirit) discovers a cave and, in it, a sword embedded in a rock. The cave turns out to be the tomb of King Arthur.

Abilities: By pulling the sword out of the rock, Arthur gains the strength of more than ten men and wields the sword Excalibur with ease.
Appearance: The Sword wears a form-fitting golden chain mail uniform, but leaves his face uncovered.

Modus Operandi: The Sword is soon aided by the Lancer and Merlin in most of his adventures.

Friends and Allies:

The Lancer. AKA Lance Larter, an adolescent friend of Arthur Lake’s. As the Lancer, he wears the same kind of golden chain mail as the Sword. The Lancer first appears in Super-Mystery v3/3 and in most issues thereafter.

Merlin. In actuality Moe Lynn, an older worker at Arthur’s father’s factory. Both are transformed into their heroic personas whenever Arthur pulls Excalibur from its stone.

He first appears in Super-Mystery v3/6.

Notable Adversaries:

Faye Morgana. Known variously as“the greatest spy in all the Reich” and “beautiful as a dream, deadly as a serpent!” The narrative suggests she is “a woman from out of history” (and thus likely a personification of King Arthur’s ancient adversary), but little is made of this and she appears to only rarely utilize magical powers. She does, however, wield a whip very effectively. Faye Morgana is often aided by her underlings, the Hun and the Goth. After multiple attempts at defeating the Sword, Morgana despairs in Super Mystery 22, and is shown getting drunk! At this point, the Genius appears, volunteering to assist her. But Morgana ultimately betrays the Genius, and his subsequent revenge contributes to her final defeat by the Sword and Lancer. Super-Mystery v3/3-4/4 (1943-44).

The Genius. This arrogant inventor and, yes, genius uses a wide array of gadgets in his crimes. The Genius is short and a bit pudgy, his curly mop of hair adding to a sense of personal indolence. He ultimately is sent back to antiquity by a time machine of his own devising, never to be seen or heard from again. Super-Mystery v4/4-6 (1944-45).

The Hun and the Goth. The Hun and the Goth are “masterworks of science and breeding, the first true representatives of the future race of German master-men!” As such, they are assigned by Hitler himself to assist Faye Morgana. After their first failure, Hitler orders his scientists to feed them special vitamins to double their strength. The Hun is portrayed as a long-haired brute and the Goth, a vicious old graybeard. Both are physically powerful men. Super-Mystery Comics v3/4, v4/1-4 (1943-44).

Sightings: Captain Courageous 6; Lightning Comics v3/1; Super-Mystery Comics v3/3-5/3

Active: 1942-45

The UNKNOWN SOLDIER

Secret Identity: No alternative identity.

Origin: The living embodiment of all the young soldiers who died in the service of America.

Powers: The Unknown Soldier possesses superior strength, the power of flight, and a “nitro gun” that shoots explosive bullets.

Attire: Brown soldiers uniform with a gray eye mask beneath his soldier’s cap and a configuration of yellow stars on the chest of his shirt.

Modus Operandi: Relentless battle against Axis agents and saboteurs.

Friends and Allies:

Miscellaneous American service men and women.

Notable Adversaries:

Attila the Hun. Centuries ago, the original Attila the Hun is subject to an old man’s curse. He is promptly swallowed up by the earth “until a greater evil than Attila shall come to scourge an unhappy earth.” That evil turns out to be Hitler and the newly revived Hun is more than happy to join his cause. Four Favorites 14 (1944).

Dr. Oxyo. The “cleverest scientist in the Reich” creates a “balloon-borne stratospheric airfield,” from which Nazi warplanes use as a base to devastating effect. Oxyo sports a walrus-mustache and wears an oxygen helmet over his head while at his mile-high airfield. Four Favorites 15 (1944).

Drako-Saki. Considered the “father of Japanese evil, (a) spirit of the nether worlds,” this “Jap vampire” is raised from the dead to help defeat the Allied effort.Four Favorites 11 (1943).

The Icicle. Born Rufino LeMair, this older Frenchman can create ice with his mere touch and his breath is cool mist regardless of the outside temperature. LeMair’s hair, eyebrows, goatee and sideburns all resemble icicles. Four Favorites 7 (1942).

The Invisible Man. In actuality, draft dodger Professor Amos Aries. Aries, himself, explains the mechanics of his power: “First I don this overall skintight uniform and (then) dunk myself in this invisible ink,” which he keeps in his bathtub! By doing so, Aries can become completely invisible. Four Favorites 4 (1942).

Sightings: Our Flag Comics 1-5; Four Favorites 4-20

Active: 1941-45

VULCAN

Secret Identity: None.

Origin: “Living beneath an uninhabited volcanic island in the South Seas, the mighty Vulcan, the Volcanic Man, (is) a direct descendant of the famous god of fire. Many years ago, Vulcan chose this place of reguge to think and study until such time came about that he would take his place in the presend day.” A volcanic eruption stirs him to reenter the world of men.  

Abilities: Vulcan, surrounded by yellow fire, can fly, project fire and also extinguish it. 
Appearance: Vulcan wears a green uniform with a fire insignia emerging from his belt, perhaps representing the “fire in his belly. He doesn’t wear a mask as he has no secret identity to protect. His orange-red hair spikes in the front, resembling fire.

Modus Operandi: “Vulcan has come to the civilized world where his powers will do the most good for the side of right in the continual battle against the forces of evil.”

Friends and Allies:

Tom Warren. Detective of a big city arson squad. Vulcan saves his life as his first action in the United States. In turn, Warren explains the realities of modern life to Vulcan.

Notable Adversaries:

Ember. Self-styled “empress of fire,” Ember has ambitions to take over the country through the destructive use of fire. Her base is a countryside castle, where she sits upon a throne and is assisted in her efforts by arsonist-saboteur “Torchy” Fargo. Ember is attracted to Vulcan’s power and good looks, but is ultimately reformed by his example. She has long blonde hair and wears a crown, breast-plates and a flowing, leg-baring skirt. Super Mystery v1/3 (1940).

The Man of a Thousand Faces. Role, the Man of a Thousand Faces, is a master of disguise, a necessity given his severely disfigured faces. He enjoys taunting Vulcan with hand written notes. Super Mystery v2/6 (1942).

Sightings: Super-Mystery Comics v1/1-3/2; Four Favorites 1-3

Active: 1940-42

Other Ace Superheroes and Villains

Bert and Sue

Newlywed couple who enjoy solving crimes together. Sue Sleuth is an attractive brunette fond of short red dresses and red heels. Bert Sleuth’s passion (besides Sue) is painting, but he is likely independently wealthy as well. He sports a well-trimmed black mustache. Bert and Sue enjoy an affectionate relationship that includes its share of verbal sparring. Super-Mystery Comics  v6/1-8/6 (active 1946-49).

The Black Spider

Secretly Ralph Nelson, District Attorney, the Black Spider apprehends criminals in his masked and caped identity that the law can’t reach. To this end, he operates out of a cave and carries poisonous trained spiders in a special compartment in his belt. As he works outside the law, Inspector Stern seeks to arrest him. Nelson is aided by his secretary, Peggy Dodge, who discovers his alternative identity on their first case together by impulsively pulling off his mask. Super-Mystery Comics v1/3-v2/6 (active 1940-42).

Buckskin

AKA Robert Blake, high school principal. Part Native American, he is trained by his grandfather, a former Indian scout. Blake adopts a blue buckskin uniform, recalling the attire of America’s first heroes, to inspire his students. He is assisted by Talon, his pet eagle. Super-Mystery Comics v2/1-4, v2/6-3/1 (active 1941-43).

Mr. Death (Buckskin villain). A cadaverous-faced individual, Mr. Death himself describes himself as “a walking corpse, a being that belongs nowhere.” He wears a black cloak and top hat while commiting heinous crimes.Super-Mystery v3/4 (1943).

Cappie Young

Young is a blond-haired youth who travels the dangerous Burma Road along with his pal Brask Cooper and a Chinese fellow named Ling Po. Adventure inevitably ensues. Lightning Comics v2/5-v3/1 (active 1942).

Captain Gallant and his Mini-Sub

“Captain Gallant, young scientist-adventurer, sails the seas in his mini-sub with Peg-leg Parsons, his assistant, and Chop Ching, Oriental chief cook and bottle washer. The mini-sub is a small but powerful craft invented by Captain Gallant, which can speed along above or below the water. The Chinese Chop Ching dresses in sailor whites, has a Fu Manchu mustache, and speaks in dialect. Super-Mystery Comics v1/4-v3/2; Four Favorites 8 (active 1940-42).

Captain Victory

Attired in pale blue chain mail and a red star eye mask, Captain Victory is secretly Jack Wilson, a “young American attache” and aide to a U. S. ambassador. Possessing powers of superior strength, agility and flight, his origin isn’t given in his lone appearance. Our Flag Comics 1 (1941)

Congo Jack

Congo Jack is a handsome “adventurer and explorer” dispensing jungle justice in the heart of Africa. Jack’s loyal gunman is Matu, a native African, while Queen Moletta of the Molemen harbors affection for him. Lightning Comics v2/1-6 (active 1941-42).

The Molemen (Congo Jack villains). Sir Lugi heads the military of this green-skinned subterranean race who wield ray guns and wear military uniforms replete with scarves atop their helmets. Lugi allies himself with King Bobo of the Blue Dwarfs when he jealously turns against his lovely queen, Moletta. Lightning v2/1-2 (1941).

Corporal Flint of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Andy Flint is a stalwart mountie battling criminals in Canadian Northwest. He is assisted by a superstitious Eskimo guide named Bill-Bill. Super-Mystery v1/1-3 (active 1940).

Dr. Nemesis

AKA Dr. James Bradley, surgeon at City Hospital. During medical school, Bradley meets a mechanical engineer who helps him devise his alternative identity. Dr. Nemesis fights crime (especially those with a medical connection) wearing a trenchcoat and a surgical mask to obscure his identity. He leaves sheets from special pads leaving prescriptions of hope for the victimized. Dr. Nemesis’ greatest weapon is his extremely effective truth serum. Lightning Comics 6-13; Super-Mystery Comics v3/3-4, v3/6-v4/1 (active 1941-44).

The Surgeon (Dr. Nemesis villain). Dr Blackton kills all of the doctors involved in the discovery of a cure for the Black Plague so he can claim credit for it by himself. In the meantime, in his masked, scapel-wielding persona as the Surgeon, he actually spreads the plague to various hospitals. Lightning 13 (1942).

X2 (Dr. Nemesis villain). This Japanese agent infects Allied forces with leprosy-tainted blood, which he obtains from his supply of captive lepers. X-2 wears a white surgical mask and wields long, sharp nails. Super-Mystery v4/1 (1944).

The Flag

AKA Jim Courtney. A foundling with an American flag birthmark, the infant boy was adopted by an elderly, crippled war veteran and flag maker named John Courtney, nicknamed “Old Glory.” Christened Jim, the boy grew up to be a highly intelligent and physically gifted young man. On reaching maturity, Jim dreams that the great American elders—Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, etc.—granted him the strength of one hundred men, the speed of the wind, and the gift of invulnerability to weapons. And so they had. When his flag birthmark tingles, a hero is needed. When Jim touches the birthmark, he becomes the super-powered Flag. Our Flag Comics 2-5; Four Favorites 6 (active 1941-42).

Hap Hazard

“As a devil-may-care copy boy at the Daily Star, Hap Hazard is forever running into thrilling adventure.” Later, in Four Favorites and his own title, Hap is featured in entirely humorous, teen-antic oriented stories. Sure-Fire Comics 3; Lightning Comics 4-13 (active 1940-42).

Kay McKay, Air Hostess

Kay is a flight attendant on World Wide Airlines who helps undo many an evil scheme enroute to exotic locations. Our Flag Comics 1; Banner Comics 3-5; Captain Courageous Comics 6; Super-Mystery Comics v3/2 (active 1941-42).

Lone Warrior and Dicky

AKA Stan Carter. Before his father died, Stan and his brother Dicky were both injected with an experimental serum that granted them both powers of superior strength. The serum also scarred their chests with the letter “W.” Both fight crime in red, white and blue costumes. Banner Comics 3-5; Captain Courageous 6 (active 1941-42).

The Dictator’s Shadow (Lone Warrior villain). “Sinister leader of the American fifth column,” the Dictator’s Shadow appears to be nothing more than a talking shadow. He creates this effect by throwing a shadow from the projector in his ring. His talking shadow often disorients his foes and leads them to think he has met a lethal end in a deadly circumstance, when in actuality only his shadow was there. On one occasion, the International Gestapo assists the Shadow’s efforts by sending him twenty Mongol slaves to be made into giants that carry no blood in their limbs. The only way to stop these giants is to focus an assault on their enlarged hearts. The Dictator’s Shadow appears shadowy even in the flesh due to being covered from head to toe in black hood and robes. His real identity is never discovered. Banner 3-5 (1941-42).

Marvo the Magician

“Marvo, world famous magician and master of illusions, travels about the country with his smart little pet monkey, Tito, looking for adventure.” Marvo wears a tuxedo with a red sash across his shirt. He keeps his hair and sideburns longer than most men and his mustache is neatly trimmed and curls upward. Sure-Fire Comics 1-3; Lightning Comics 4-13 (active 1940-42).

Mr. Whiskers

“Jim Clay, former actor, has discarded the make-up kit and joined the F.B.I. He adopts the role of Mr. Whiskers in order to conceal his real identity. His disguise is known only to his superior, Chief Foster.” Mr. Whiskers looks to be an old man with a white beard who wears a slouch hat and a red cape. He dispatches criminals with his fists or his cane. Four Favorites 3-4 (active 1942).

Paul Revere, Jr.

The teen-aged Revere attempts to do right by his  famous ancestor, along with his friends, Patrick Henry and Betsy Ross. Their patriotic adventures are often linked to topics Paul’s father has written about in his newspaper column, “America Awake.” Banner Comics 3-5; Captain Courageous 6; Super-Mystery Comics v3/3-v4/6 (active 1941-45).

The Three Cheers 

Sis, Boom and Bart are three siblings forced to leave the Army because of being framed by a spy named Malko for actions they didn’t commit. Sis, an Army nurse, and her two soldier brothers dedicate themselves to clearing their name and, in the meantime, continuing to fight the Axis. Our Flag Comics 1-5 (active 1941-42).

Malko (Cheers villain). Called by some “the arch enemy of America,” Malko is a aristocratic, monocle-wearing Nazi spy who specializes in acts of sabotage. His apparent death after each encounter with the Cheers insures he is never brought to justice to clear their name. Our Flag 1-5 (1941-42).

The Unknown

Initially a narrator of occult tales, then begins to take a more active role in the stories he is telling. The Unknown, wearing a dark blue hooded robe, has this to say on his identity: “Ah, I see you’re just in time for another visit with the Unknown! What’s that? You don’t believe in the unknown? Ah! But you’re wrong there! You believe in ME, don’t you? Well, I am THE UNKNOWN!” Four Favorites 21-28 (active 1946-49).

Uno

“When the United States beat the Axis into surrender and emerged victorious from the most colossal war I history, they formed the United Nations organization (U.N.O.) to help keep the world peace. But knowing there would be problems whose solutions would require unusual tactics and handling, the security council of the U.N.O. has secretly hired famed troubleshooter Him Blake! Known only to a few members of the Security Council, Blake operation under the name of “Uno”—the United United Nations troubleshooter!” Super-Mystery Comics v6/1, v6/3-v6/6 (active 1946-47).

Whiz Wilson and his Futuroscope

“Young scientific genius, Whiz Wilson, has invented a ‘futuroscope’ which with a twist of the dial will whisk him to any place on the globe at any desired time in the future. An opposite turn of the dial will return Whiz to his laboratory.” Sure-Fire Comics 1-3; Lightning Comics 4-10 (active 1940-42).

X—the Phantom Fed

“X” is the code name for this brown-haired F.B.I. agent who is also “master of the art of disguise.” Sure-Fire Comics 1-3; Lightning Comics 4 (active 1940).

ALSO: Ace McCoy, a pilot and his brawny mechanic, Bill Regan, search the skyways for adventure, Sure-Fire 1-3; Lightning 4-5 (1940-41); The Black Ace, inspired by the ace of spades, American aviator Captain Merab joins the R.A.F., Four Favorites 2; Super-Mystery v3/1 (1941-42); The Blitzbuster, master of disguise, Four Favorites 1 (1941); Foreign Correspondent, reporter Barry Stiles and his cameraman, Tubby, Super-Mystery v2/5 (1941); Larry Harrigan, globe-trotting American adventurer and daredevil, Super-Mystery 1 (1940); “Hurry Up” Harrigan, reckless reporter, Super- Mystery v8/6 (1948-49); Mack Martin, two-fisted private detective, Super-Mystery v8/1-5 (1948-49); Mark Murdock, “fighting district attorney,” Super-Mystery 2 (1940); PeeWee Wilson, U.S.A., young mountaineer from Bear Wallow Gap drafted into the Army, Super-Mystery v2/1-v3/1 (1941-42); Q-13, “America’s Spy Fighter,”Super-Mystery 1-6 (1940-41); “Sky” Smith, Flying Ace, initially amanager of an airline based in South America, Smith decides after participating in a revolution, management’s too tame, Super-Mystery v1/1-v2/2 (1940-41); Typhoon Tyson, adventurous captain of asalvage steamer named the Sea Lion, assisted by Salty, his first mate, Our Flag 1; Banner 3-5; Captain Courageous 6 (1941-42).

HEROES OF THE OLD WEST

The Cross-Draw Kid

The legend of Bud Steele, the Cross-Draw Kid: “When he was only a boy, he saw his father drilled in the back by some desperate bushwhacker…and strapping on his father’s guns, he took a vow to rid the West of all killers! Years of intense practice perfected for him the lightning cross-draw, which makes the fastest gunman seem to be slow-dragging his irons…” The Kid has red hair and wears a red and white shirt, green trousers, brown boots, yellow gloves and a green and white cowboy hat. The clean-living cowboy (he requests buttermilk at taverns) typically faces more colorful foes than the average western hero. Western Adventure Comics 1-6 (retold 1948-49).

 Cross-Draw Kid villains: El Tigre. Presumably a Mexican outlaw.Western Adventure 3 (1949). The Jester. Distinguished by a yellow and black polka-dot shirt and face scarf, the Jester is secretly a performing ventriloquist named “Lips” Hawkins. The Jester is apparently backed by a sizable gang of outlaws, actually life-sized dummies “riding” horses that are trained to follow the Jester’s own. Western Adventure 4 (1949). Patch Eye. Hard-drinking, cigar smoking Western badman who wears an eyepatch, hence his name.Western Adventure 1 (1948). The Skull. Outlaw who wears a loose-fitting skull mask. The Skull turns out to be the local sheriff who adopted this disguise in a scheme to secure a stash of buried gold. Western Adventure 2 (1948).

Duke Buckland

“Framed by his enemies, unjustly wanted by the law, Duke Buckland and his faithful comrade, Kit McCane, ride the lonesome range, ever on the search for adventure, ever ready to see justice done.”Western Adventure Comics 1-2 (retold 1948-49).

Sheriff Sal

“When the frontier town of Red Dog elected Sally Starr its sheriff, mocking laughter rang out from canyon wall to grazing land, and echoed across the western ranges.” The town of Red Dog was “so doggone peace-loving no man wants (the job),” but livens up shortly thereafter! Sal is dark-haired with a red skirt and cowboy hat, long-sleeved brown shirt and boots, and short white gloves. She sports a black star on each of her boots. The sheriff is often assisted by other women in the execution of her duties. But in Western Love Trails 7, Sal hands over her badge to the man she intends to marry. Western Adventure Comics 1-6; Western Love Trails 7 (retold 1948-49).

Mark Carlson-Ghost