Other Comics

Navy Action #1 – 15 (1955-1956)

Comic Books Library
by Comic Books Library August 06, 2025
Navy Action #1 – 15 (1955-1956)


Navy Action #1–15 (1955–1956)

📚 Genre

War, Military Fiction, Action-Adventure
Navy Action falls under the classic Golden Age war comics genre, delivering gripping tales of naval warfare, heroism, and patriotism during the post-WWII and Korean War era. Its stories are steeped in realistic combat scenarios and military honor.

đŸ‘„ Main Characters

While Navy Action didn't focus on a single protagonist throughout its run, several recurring archetypes and figures stood out:

  • Commander Drake – A seasoned naval officer with unmatched leadership in dangerous waters.

  • Lieutenant Hale – A young but fearless sailor who often found himself at the heart of key missions.

  • “Torpedo” Turner – A maverick torpedo specialist known for his daring tactics and rough edge.

  • Various U.S. Navy Crews – Many stories centered on nameless but valiant sailors, highlighting teamwork and sacrifice.

✍️ Writer

The series featured contributions from Don Rico, a prolific comic writer of the era who infused realism and character-driven narratives into the war comic format. Rico was known for capturing the tension and duty of service life with a compelling narrative voice.

🎹 Artist

The standout visual work was done by John Severin, one of the most respected artists in war comics. His gritty yet detailed style brought authenticity to combat scenes, character expressions, and military hardware. Severin’s sharp linework and dynamic panel layouts made every issue engaging.

🧑‍đŸ’Œ Editor Details

Edited by Stan Lee, Navy Action was part of a broader initiative by Atlas Comics to delve into patriotic and war-themed storytelling during the 1950s. Lee's editorial direction ensured that the stories stayed exciting yet grounded in wartime realism.

🏱 Publisher and Brand

Published by Atlas Comics, the 1950s precursor to Marvel Comics, Navy Action was one of several military-themed series under their banner. It wasn’t branded under a modern label like Marvel MAX or Epic but was firmly a part of Atlas’s Golden Age lineup.

📅 Release Year

The series ran from 1955 to 1956, during the height of post-WWII military pride and during the Korean War’s cultural aftermath. This timing significantly influenced the themes and tone of the stories.

🧭 Brief Plot Summary

Navy Action showcased self-contained war stories centered around the U.S. Navy. Each issue delivered tales of survival, naval skirmishes, and sabotage missions on the high seas. From storming enemy submarines to defending Pacific outposts, the series celebrated courage under fire and tactical ingenuity. The realism in strategy and emotion lent the comic a gripping intensity rarely matched in the genre.

📖 Notable Arcs or Storylines

While most issues were standalone:

  • “Death in the Coral Sea” (Issue #4): Focused on a high-stakes mission to rescue downed pilots in enemy territory.

  • “The Silent Depths” (Issue #9): A psychological dive into life aboard a submarine facing a silent killer.

  • “Night Strike!” (Issue #12): Portrayed a surprise attack against a hidden enemy port, emphasizing the cost of victory.

These stories offered more than just action—they provided glimpses into the emotional toll and complexity of war.

🧠 Fan Theories or Interpretations

While Navy Action was grounded in realism and didn’t delve into the supernatural or superheroic, fans have speculated that:

  • Commander Drake could be an early prototype for later Marvel military characters like Nick Fury.

  • The recurring themes of honor and sacrifice may reflect post-war American anxieties and pride, subtly reinforcing Cold War ideology.

  • Some even suggest the anthology style influenced later team-based titles like Sgt. Fury and His Howling Commandos.

⭐ Review Summary

Navy Action #1–15 stands as a gritty, well-crafted entry in the Golden Age war comic canon. The artwork by John Severin shines with realism and detail, bringing sea battles and soldier life vividly to the page. Don Rico’s writing balances patriotic fervor with personal depth, often making readers feel the weight of sacrifice and camaraderie. While the characters may not have had the spotlight in modern continuity, their stories hold a timeless, emotionally resonant power. ⚓đŸ’„đŸ“–

Fans of military comics and vintage storytelling will find Navy Action a rewarding read—an evocative salute to those who serve.


Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)

Navy Action #1 – 15 (1955-1956)
Language : English