Modern Comics #56

This December 1946 issue of Modern Comics — the title that carried on from Military Comics — presents a striking cover by Alex Kotzky featuring a stern, self-assured military officer dominating the foreground, his cap bearing an eagle insignia, with a great dark bird spreading its wings dramatically across his shoulders. Behind him, five uniformed servicemen stand at ease in a confident row, joined by a colorful comic-relief figure on the left who adds a touch of levity to the ensemble. With interior art by Reed Crandall and inking by Chuck Cuidera, this is a fine snapshot of Quality Comics at the height of its postwar storytelling ambition.