Modern Comics #72

Modern Comics #72 (April 1948) puts the full Blackhawk squadron front and center, with the faces of seven distinctive team members — including a mustachioed villain figure clutching what appears to be a weapon — set against streaking diagonal lines that suggest high-speed aerial action. The cover boldly announces that Blackhawk is going up against the Bandit Lord, Blackbeard, giving the issue a swashbuckling, adventure-serial energy that Quality Comics did so well. Reed Crandall's clean, confident linework brings each face to life with real personality, making this a fine showcase for one of comics' most enduring ensemble aviation teams.