Intro 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993

1994 1995-96 1997 1998 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

COMPLETE GUIDE TO G. I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO

1997 (Series 14)

Overview:

The year 1997 was the fifteenth anniversary of the 3 3/4-inch line, as well as the tenth anniversary of G. I. Joe: The Movie. The rise of the Internet among college students and other young adults had ignited fan fervor for everything 1980s. Three of the largest G. I. Joe fan sites merged that year to form Yojoe.com, a massive site which today is considered the definitive on-line source for 3 3/4-inch G. I. Joe history. From the beginning, there was a mailing list, a page for each figure, and photos of most of the filecards were available as well. The three most prominent names associated with the site were Eugene Son, Corey Stinson, and Conor Malone. The Star Wars: Special Edition releases created an interest in toy collecting in general, so a number of G. I. Joe price guides were released this year.

Nostalgia turned to elation when Hasbro-Kenner announced plans to release 3 3/4-inch figures that summer in honor of the line's fifteenth anniversary. The original idea was to produce three boxed sets of four figures, repaints from the early days. The planned sets were repaints of (1) Roadblock, 1982 Scarlett, 1985 Snake Eyes (with Timber), and Grunt; (2) 1983 Duke, 1983 Gung-Ho, 1984 Roadblock, and Lady Jaye; and (3) 1982 Cobra Commander, 1984 Firefly, 1986 Viper, and Alley Viper. Character art for Short-Fuze and Footloose would have been recycled and modified for Roadblock and Grunt.

Unfortunately, the release was delayed until fall, and the production ran into problems. Some fans began to wonder if the figures would be released at all. First, the boxed set idea was scrapped in favor of 3-packs and vehicles, plus an 8-figure set of the surviving original team members. Because most collectors were interested in figures, no vehicle would be sold without one. Second, many of the older molds could not be located or else were unusable. Cards, boxes, filecards, and related art were all completed before the mold problem became evident. As a result of the mold problem, Flash had to be removed from the 8-figure set and replaced with Breaker (who had died in the comic), and then Breaker and Rock 'n Roll had to be "Frankensteined" from other figures. Snake Eyes, Cobra Commander, Destro, and parts of Alley Viper had to be made from other molds, and the new Blizzard would actually be a repaint of 1993's Frostbite. Fortunately, the vehicles could be released as planned, and the line was released in Toys 'R Us stores in October. While the line was not perfect, it was a return to what many considered the "good ol' days" of G. I. Joe, without neon colors, spring-loaded weapons, monsters, or aliens.

Contents:

• Carded Joe and Cobra figures
• Boxed Joe and Cobra figures
• Equipment

Figures:

3-pack minimum price: $8.99

(Prices reflect original store price, not current value. Items are not for sale on this site.)

Blizzard	Item #28014-1	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Arctic Attack Soldier		E-8 (Army master sergeant)	SN: RA 432-44-2464
File Name: 1SG Gregory M. Natale		Primary MOS: Arctic Warfare Training Instructor
POB: Wolfboro, NH		Secondary MOS: Infantry
Motto: "You got the mission, I got the time."
Appearance: grey cap; red hair and beard; white jacket and pants with grey camouflage; beige straps with black grenades; black gloves; black boots.
Accessories: black pistol (82 Snake Eyes's Uzi); black laser rifle (84 Baroness's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: "You got the mission, I got the time." Filecard Information: Blizzard joined the G. I. Joe team before its closure by the government. His experience as an Arctic Instructor made him the man to train under. To survive his kind of warfare, you not only have to worry about the enemy, but the unforgiving cold weather. Blizzardis as tough as the combat conditions. His methods may seem rough, but the troops either qualifty, or face the consequences. His claim to fame was after he led an experimental program that lasted an entire winter. It was the worst place he could find, and he loved every minute of it. He spends more time hanging out with the wildlife, as if he likes the company of polar bears rather than humans. Some might say his personality is a lot nastier. When the G. I. Joe program re-organized, Blizzard formed the Arctic Unit, and hand picked the soldiers he thought deserved to work alongside him. You have to give him respect, and plenty of room for his ego. We are all just happy he is on our side. From General Hawk's Files: "I compare Blizzard to a polar bear with an attitude problem. He's got the experience, and performs well under the arctic conditions. He doesn't work well with others, but his saving grace is his service record. Give him a mission with extreme circumstances, and he will pull through—no questions asked. We needed somebody tough enough to handle the Arctic Unit, guess who was number one on the list. I may get complaints from his teammates, but they respect him and that's what counts."
Versions: 1. 1988 2. 1997 (3-Pack)
Variations: Card art and pre-production photos show that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1988 version.
Mold: Blizzard (97), Frostbite (93)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Iceberg and Snow Job. Note that Blizzard has been promoted from E-7 to E-8.

 

Iceberg	Item #28014-2	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Arctic Assault Trooper		E-6 (Army staff sergeant)	SN: RA 271-65-5660
File Name: Sgt. Clifton L. Nash		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: Brownsville, TX		Secondary MOS: Cold Weather Survival Instructor
Motto: "I like my food like my enemies—Frozen!"
Appearance: African-American; white hat with silver goggles; black hair; white snowsuit with grey camouflage; beige backpack straps and belt; black and grey gloves; black boots.
Accessories: black machine gun (86 Iceberg's M60); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Iceberg grew up in hot weather, and he hated it. As soon as he was old enough to enlist, he signed up for duty in Alaska. The cold is his element—he's not happy until the mercury drops well below zero. Iceberg possesses both the knowledge and ability to endure freezing temperatures. This is not to say he's impervious to lethal effects of hypothermia, rather a passion for the survival within the element. Give him an M-16 rifle and an icicle and you'll have an igloo full of COBRA prisoners within the hour. He repects the cold, and uses it to his advantage. When the G. I. Joe program re-organized, Iceberg returned as a member of the Arctic Unit. He's an instructor that loves his job. He's always cool—in more ways than one. From General Hawk's Files: "If I have a mission that requires cold weather involvement, odds are Iceberg will volunteer for it. This guy loves the cold, and everything about it. His knowledge and survival skills give him the advantage. He's more happy to climb a mountain, build his own igloo, and fish for his dinner. It's like summer camp in the winter for him. He knows what it takes, and always gets results."
Versions: 1. 1986 2. 1993 (Battle Corps) 3. 1997 (3-Pack)
Variations: None.
Mold: Iceberg (86, 97)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Blizzard and Snow Job. Note that Iceberg has been promoted from E-5 to E-6

 

Lady Jaye	Item #28015-1	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Covert Operations Specialist		E-7 (Army sergeant first class)	SN: 853-7632-LJ67
File Name: Sgt. Alison R. Hart-Burnett		Primary MOS: Intelligence
POB: Martha's Vineyard, MA		Secondary MOS: Personnel Clerk
Appearance: black hat with silver circle on front; brown hair; black and white open-collared, short-sleeved shirt and pants; black gloves and boots.
Accessories: black backpack (85 Lady Jaye's); black power javelin (85 Lady Jaye's); black video camera (85 Lady Jaye's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Lady Jaye graduated from Bryn Mawr and did her graduate work at Trinity College in Dublin. She is an expert at covert operations, with a background as an accomplished actress and linguist. She can pass for a native in many nations, including France, Italy, Poland, Russia, Germany, Afghanistan, Spain, and Portugal. Although not one of the original Joes, Lady Jaye is nonetheless a prominent member of the team. Her skills as a personnel clerk make her one of the few people who can keep track of the growing roster of Joes, their various special assignments, and current assignment details. Her training is wide and varied, as befits a covert operations specialist. She is disciplined in a wide assortment of weaponry, from crossbows and javelins to rifles and machine guns. Lady Jaye is also Airborne and Ranger qualified, and graduated intelligence school at Fort Holabird. She has maintained a relationship with Flint, the Joe Team's warrant officer, although her professionalism and Flint's "attitude" have made for some occasionally rough edges in their relationship. Airborne and Ranger qualified, graduated intelligence school Fort Holabird. Qualified expert: M-16, M1911A1 and reflex crossbow. From General Hawk's Files: "Because of the nature of her specialty, that of covert operations, Lady Jaye doesn't always work well within a team environment. She is, however, a consummate professional, she is the best at what she does. On those rare occasions during off-hours when she does let her guard down, she is a remarkably friendly and pleasant person."
Versions: 1. 1985 2. 1997 (3-Pack) 3. 2003/I (Convention) 4. 2003/II (Spy Troops) 5. 2006 (Comic #44) 6. 2007 (25th Wave 2)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Lady Jaye (85, 97, 03/I) upper arms and torso—Lady Jaye (85, 97, 03/I), Volga (98) lower arms—Lady Jaye (85, 97, 03/I, 06), Volga (98, 05) waist and legs—Lady Jaye (85, 97, 03/I, 06), Volga (98, 05), Doc (07)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow. Note that Lady Jaye has been promoted from E-4 to E-7.

 

Snake Eyes	Item #28015-2	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Commando		E-8 (Army master sergeant)	SN: (CLASSIFIED)
File Name: (CLASSIFIED)		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: (CLASSIFIED)		Secondary MOS: Hand-to-Hand Combat Instructor
Appearance: black face mask with grey goggles; black shirt with grey straps; black pants with grey belt; silver grenade on chest; light brown pockets on belt and leg; black boots.
Accessories: black backpack (86 Hawk's); black pistol (82 Snake Eyes's Uzi); black laser rifle (84 Baroness's); black sword (84 Storm Shadow's katana); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Snake-Eyes' life has been one of both military discipline and horrific tragedy. He served in Southeast Asia in a Long-Range Recon Patrol. Upon returning home, he learned that his parents and sister had been fatally wounded on their way to the airport to meet him. Subsequently, Snake-Eyes joined the ninja clan which was Storm Shadow's family. This ended in disaster when the head of the family, known as the Hard Master, was assassinated. Storm Shadow was the primary suspect. Later, Snake-Eyes would retreat to a mountain cabin in the High Sierras, turning his back on the world, with only a wolf named Timber as his companion. When the G. I. Joes were being formed, Stalker and Hawk brought him back to be part of the team. In an early Joe mission, Snake-Eyes was involved in a mid-air helicopter collision that left his face horribly scarred. He was virtually unable to speak. Yet, through all of this, Snake-Eyes never abandoned his sense of duty or discipline. He remains, to this day, the ultimate soldier, and a valued member of the G. I. Joe Team. From Snake-Eyes' Journal: "Do I have any regrets about choosing the life of a soldier? None. It has been my continuing privilege to serve in defense of this country and for all it stands [for], with men and women upon whom I can depend utterly. They are the finest this country has to offer. Being a soldier isn't so much a job—it is a trust."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1985 (w/ Timber) 3. 1989 4. 1991 5. 1993 (Ninja Force) 6. 1994 (Shadow Ninjas) 7. 1997/I (3-Pack) 8. 1997/II (Stars & Stripes) 9. 2000 (RAH Collection) 10. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 11. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 12. 2002/III (Sound Attack) 13. 2002/IV (JvC Wave 3) 14. 2003/I (ToyFare) 15. 2003/II (DVD w/ Timber) 16. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1) 17. 2004/II (Comic #2) 18. 2004/III (Ninja Lightning) 19. 2004/IV (Comic #4) 20. 2004/V (Desert Patrol) 21. 2004/VI (Built to Rule) 22. 2005/I (Ninja Battles) 23. 2005/II (VvV 7 w/ Timber) 24. 2005/III (Single Pack) 25. 2005/IV (Comic #21) 26. 2005/V (Winter Ops) 27. 2005/VI (Heavy Assault) 28. 2006 (Comic #26) 29. 2007/I (25th Wave 1) 30. 2007/II (25th Joe Set) 31. 2008/I (25th Wave 5-6) 32. 2008/II (Comic #21) 33. 2008/III (Comic #21b)
Variations: Card art and pre-production photos show that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1985 version and would have included Timber.
Mold: head—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/II, 04/IV), Mortal (06) arms—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Zap (82, 97, 04), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) torso—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Breaker (82, 05), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Hawk (82, 04/I), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/IV, 05/VI), Mortal (06), Alex "Sparks" Verdi (07) waist—Snake Eyes (97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Roadblock (86), Gen. Abernathy (04/I), Guile (93/I, 93/II), Breaker (97, 05), Rock 'n Roll (97, 05), Sgt. Stalker (04/II, 05/I, 06), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Mortal (06) upper legs—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Grunt (97), Mortal (06) lower legs—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Flash (82), Grand Slam (82, 83), Grunt (97), Mortal (06)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Lady Jaye and Storm Shadow. Snake's code name is hyphenated for the 1985, 1993, 1994, 1997/II, and 2000 versions. The 2006 version was named "CLASSIFIED."

 

Snow Job	Item #28014-3	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Arctic Trooper		E-7 (Army sergeant first class)	SN: RA 773-65-8456
File Name: Sgt. Harlan W. Moore		Primary MOS: Arctic Ski Patrol
POB: Rutland, VT		Secondary MOS: Rifle Instructor
Motto: "Never bet against me."
Appearance: red hair and beard; large silver goggles; white hooded snowsuit with grey camouflage; grey gloves and boots; beige backpack straps and belt.
Accessories: white backpack (83 Snow Job's); black laser rifle (83 Snow Job's XMLR-3A); two white skis with black skipoles (83 Snow Job's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Snow Job was the first arctic soldier to join the G. I. Joe Team. His talents were needed when the battle against COBRA took to the cold climate and snow covered mountains. He doesn't particularly enjoy the cold, but thrives on what he can do in it. He's an expert marksman, qualified on all NATO long range rifles and laser targeting systems. Snow Job was a major contender for the Olympic Biathlon before his enlistment. He can still ski down steep mountains and pick off a target 1,000 yards away, making it back to base before the end of a poker game. His reputation precedes him, not only as a skilled target shooter, but as a major con artist. Snow Job's scams are legendary within the barracks, and no one will dare take a bet from him. His teammates steer clear of him around pay day. When the G. I. Joe program re-organized, Snow Job returned as a member of the Arctic unit. He won more card games than anyone cares to remember, and he never misses a shot. You can bet on him to be the winner. From General Hawk's Files: "He is a highly qualified individual. A definite choice pick for the team. His talents with a rifle are as legendary as are his all night card games. Snow Job is one of the arctic experts that really doesn't like the cold. Very strange, since he performs best in that environment. If we miss him, we figure he is in one of two places—out target shooting, or out spending the pay he won off the last poker game he played. Trust him on the battlefield, but never take him up on any sure bets . . . "
Versions: 1. 1983 2. 1997 (3-Pack) 3. 2008 (25th Wave 5)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Snow Job (83, 97), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II) upper arms: Snow Job (97), Breaker (82), Rock 'n Roll (82), Clutch (82, 84), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II), Snake Eyes (04/II), Sgt. Misha Zubenkov (06), Robert "Grunt" Graves (07) lower arms: Snow Job (83, 97), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II), Snake Eyes (04/II), Steeler (04), Sgt. Misha Zubenkov (06), Robert "Grunt" Graves (07) torso—Snow Job (83, 97), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II), Snake Eyes (04/II), Robert "Grunt" Graves (07) waist—Snow Job (83, 97), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II), Snake Eyes (04/II), Sgt. Misha Zubenkov (06), Robert "Grunt" Graves (07) legs—Snow Job (83, 97), Whiteout (01), Frostbite (03/I, 05/II), Snake Eyes (04/II), Sgt. Misha Zubenkov (06), Robert "Grunt" Graves (07), Rafael "Zap" Melendez (07)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Blizzard and Iceberg. Note that Snow Job has been promoted from E-6 to E-7.

 

Storm Shadow	Item #28015-3	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Ninja		E-8 (Army master sergeant)	SN: 275-8934-ST51
File Name: 1SG Thomas S. Arashikage		Primary MOS: Covert Operations
POB: St. Louis, MO		Secondary MOS: Martial Arts Instructor
Appearance: white face mask, short-sleeved tunic and pants with black spots; silver wrist wraps, boots, and diagonal strap on chest.
Accessories: black backpack (84 Storm Shadow's); two black swords (84 Storm Shadow's katana and wakizashi); black bow (84 Storm Shadow's); black nunchuku (84 Storm Shadow's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: He also comes from a family of ninjas, whom he rejoined after serving his time in Southeast Asia. The head of the ninja clan, the Hard Master, Storm Shadow's uncle, was destroyed. The perpetrator was believed to be Storm Shadow himself. Storm Shadow knew otherwise, and took off in pursuit of the assailants. This eventually lead [sic] him to the terrorist organization known as Cobra. Storm Shadow infiltrated the organization, serving as Cobra Commander's personal bodyguard until he could discover the truth surrounding his uncle's death. It was ultimately revealed that the assassin was Zartan, on orders from Cobra Commander, and the intended target was Snake-Eyes. Storm Shadow was ultimately denied his revenge, but also realized that his drive for revenge had nearly consumed his soul. He turned his back on the evil that had nearly claimed him. He sought out his ninja brother Snake-Eyes, and eventually joined the G. I. Joes. From General Hawk's Files: "In his own way, Storm Shadow is just as devastating a warrior as Snake-Eyes. However, Storm Shadow seems to prefer more traditional, even ancient methods of combat, using the tools of the ninja as opposed to more modern hardware. Storm Shadow places a very high regard on personal honor, and is determined to make up for his time in service to Cobra. I'm glad he's on our side now!"
Versions: 1. 1984 2. 1988 3. 1992 (Ninja Force) 4. 1994 (Shadow Ninjas) 5. 1997 (3-Pack) 6. 2000 (RAH Collection) 7. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 8. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 9. 2002/III (Sound Attack) 10. 2002/IV (JvC Wave 3) 11. 2004/I (Action Attack) 12. 2004/II (Urban Strike Team) 13. 2004/III (Oper. Avalanche) 14. 2004/IV (VvV Wave 4) 15. 2004/V (Ninja Lightning) 16. 2004/VI (Ninja Strike Team) 17. 2005/I (Ninja Battles) 18. 2005/II (Single Pack) 19. 2005/III (Comic #21) 20. 2005/IV (Unmasked) 21. 2006 (Comic #26) 22. 2007/I (25th Wave 1) 23. 2007/II (25th Cobra Set) 24. 2007/III (25th Cobra Legions) 25. 2008/I (Comic #21) 26. 2008/II (Comic #21b)
Variations: None.
Mold: head, torso, waist, and legs—Storm Shadow (84, 97, 05/III), Ninja Viper (92), Black Dragon Ninja (04), Red Ninja Viper (04) upper arms—Storm Shadow (84, 97), Ninja Viper (92), Black Dragon Ninja (04), Red Ninja Viper (04) lower arms—Storm Shadow (84, 97, 05/III, 06), Ninja Viper (92), Black Dragon Ninja (04), Red Ninja Viper (04)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Lady Jaye and Snake Eyes. The 2006 version was named "Tommy Arashikage."

 

Baroness	Item #28017-1	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Cobra Intelligence Officer
File Name: Anastasia Decobray		Primary MOS: Intelligence
POB: (CLASSIFIED)		Secondary MOS: Fixed Wing Pilot
Appearance: long black hair; black eyeglasses; blue shirt segmented armor vest with black Cobra insignia on red background; black gloves and blue/silver wristbands. blue pants with black belt and thigh-high boots.
Accessories: black laser rifle (84 Baroness's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: The Baroness was the spoiled offspring of European parents who made sure that she and her brother, Eugen, had the best of everything in life. During the time of the Southeast Asian conflict, Eugen had abandoned his aristocratic lifestyle. Using the power and influence, he delivered medical supplies and other needed items into the war-torn region. On one tragic occasion, Eugen's sister, Anastasia, accompanied him on what would result in a deal gone bad. Eugen was fatally wounded just as another soldier burst in and apprehended the saboteurs. Anastasia, who had been in another room, believed that the soldier had destroyed both her brother and his supposedly peaceful contacts. This sent her on a course of revenge that would lead her into a life of international terrorism. She joined the ranks of COBRA rising to its top intelligence agent. The Baroness is a highly intelligent and ambitious individual, and often enjoys pitting Destro, her companion, against Cobra Commander even as they all plot the overthrow of G. I. Joe and the conquest of the world. From G. I. Joe Files: "The Baroness is probably the most dangerous agent within Cobra. She is ultimately loyal only to herself, and serves Cobra only because it is in her best interest to do so. She has an unrelenting hatred towards established governments that she believes are ruled by military machines. Since G. I. Joe is the 'best of the best' in the military world, she despises the Joes most of all."
Versions: 1. 1984 2. 1997 (3-Pack) 3. 2002/I (Crimson Strike Team) 4. 2002/II (Joe vs. Cobra) 5. 2004/I (VvV Wave 2) 6. 2004/II (Comic #1) 7. 2005/I (Single Pack) 8. 2005/II (Imperial) 9. 2007 (25th Cobra set)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Baroness (84, 97, 02/I), Chameleon (00) arms—Baroness (84, 97, 02/I, 04/II, 05/II), Chameleon (00), Night Stalker (07/I, 07/II, 07/III), Night Stalker Commander (07) torso, waist, and legs—Baroness (84, 97, 02/I, 04/II, 05/II), Chameleon (00)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Cobra Commander and Destro.

 

Cobra Commander	Item #28017-2	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Supreme Leader
File Name: (UNKNOWN)		Primary MOS: Supreme Leader of COBRA
POB: (UNKNOWN)
Appearance: blue helmet with Cobra emblem on forehead; blue shirt and pants with gold armor on chest and knees; black gloves, joints, belt, holster, and boots.
Accessories: black laser pistol (82 Cobra Commander's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Cobra Commander actually started out as a used car dealer, but increasingly began to believe that governments and big business were "out to get the little guy." He was determined to find a way to climb to the "top of the heap" by any means necessary. Already an unstable personality, the man who would be Cobra Commander went completely around the bend when his brother was fatally wounded in a traffic accident with a soldier's family. It mattered not that it had been his brother who caused the accident. Building an organization of malcontents and financing it with everything from pyramid schemes to selling household products door-to-door, Cobra Commander gradually realized his dream of forming a terrorist organization with the will and firepower to cause chaos around the world. Today, Cobra is regarded as the number-one terrorist threat across the globe. Cobra Commander is utterly dedicated to starting conflict, overthrowing nations, and doing everything possible to bring down the governments of the world. With his desire to conquer the planet under his iron fist, Cobra Commander is unquestionably the most dangerous and ruthless man on the face of the Earth. From G. I. Joe Files: "One wonders how something like this could have happened; how an otherwise innocuous person could have built up such a horrible and frightening entity as Cobra, under his complete and total control. It's not the first time something like this has happened. Probably won't be the last, either. It's up to the Joes to stop the likes of Cobra Commander, no matter how long it takes!"
Versions: 1. 1982 (Mail)/carded 1983 2. 1984 (Mail, Hooded) 3. 1987 4. 1991 5. 1992 (Battle Commanders) 6. 1993 (Battle Corps) 7. 1994 (Star Brigade) 8. 1997 (3-Pack) 9. 2000 (RAH Wave 1) 10. 2001 (RAH Wave 3) 11. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 12. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 13. 2002/III (JvC Wave 3) 14. 2003/I (Convention) 15. 2003/II (JvC Wave 7.75) 16. 2003/III (JvC Wave 8) 17. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1) 18. 2004/II (Comic #1) 19. 2004/III (VvV Wave 5) 20. 2004/IV (Built to Rule) 21. 2005/I (VvV Wave 7) 22. 2005/II (Comic #76) 23. 2005/III (Imperial) 24. 2005/IV (Comic #9) 25. 2007/I (25th Wave 1) 26. 2007/II (25th Cobra set) 27. 2007/III (Cobra Legions) 28. 2008/I (Comic #24) 29. 2008/II (25th Wave 6)
Variations: Card art and pre-production photos show that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1982 version.
Mold: head—Cobra Commander (87, 97, 01) arms and torso—Cobra Commander (87, 97, 01, 05/II), Imperial Guard (05) waist and legs—Cobra Commander (87, 97, 01, 05/II)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Baroness and Destro.

 

Destro	Item #28017-3	Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-Pack Assortment
Weapons Supplier
File Name: James McMullen		Primary MOS: Intelligence
POB: Callander, Scotland
Appearance: silver mask; red shirt with silver medallion; dark red jacket with large black hood and shoulder armor; red gloves; black pants with red belt and dark red leg armor; black boots.
Accessories: black machine gun (92 Destro's XL-14); black disc launcher (92 Destro's, with black trigger); three black discs (92 Destro's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Destro is the 17th "Laird" of a manor house in the Scottish highlands and the current head of a centuries-old arms manufacturing firm. Tradition holds that the current head of the firm always wears a polished beryllium steel mask when in public. Destro's predecessors supplied weapons and aircraft to the British in World War II, and Destro's father was active in supplying arms to Southeast Asia. The current Destro has been somewhat more ambitious, briefly running his own organization known as the Iron Grenadiers before becoming the arms supplier for Cobra on a regular basis. Although Destro personally despises Cobra Commander, believing him to be a pompous, posturing poltroon, he knows that working with Cobra is good for business. Cobra gives Destro more latitude in designing weapons than most military organizations, and Cobra's penchant for inciting conflict in various parts of the world ensures a continued need for weaponry. The Joes have a grudging respect for Destro even if they disagree with his motives. Believing him to be the man with a senseof personal honor, he is unlike most of Cobra's hierarchy. From Destro's personal journal: "As long as there are people in this world, there will always be conflict. Technology advances best during times of strife and battle, and there are always those who will take advantage of this. Better it should be someone with honor."
Versions: 1. 1983 2. 1988 (Iron Grenadiers) 3. 1992 4. 1993 (Cobra-Tech) 5. 1997 (3-Pack) 6. 2001 (RAH Collection) 7. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 8. 2002/II (Dominator) 9. 2002/III (JvC Wave 1.35) 10. 2003 (Spy Troops) 11. 2004 (Valor vs. Venom) 12. 2005/I (Comic #25) 13. 2005/II (Convention) 14. 2007/I (Comic Con silver) 15. 2007/II (Comic Con gold) 16. 2007/III (25th Cobra set) 17. 2008/I (25th Wave 5) 18. 2008/II (Comic #14)
Variations: Card art and pre-production photos show that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1983 version. Early releases came with pink disc launchers instead of black. At one stage of preproduction, the figure was originally designed with leopard-print collar and thighs. The resulting "Pimp Daddy Destro," so named by the fan community, made it as far as packaged samples before being redesigned. Of these, perhaps a hundred ended up on store shelves. The elusive figure was popular enough to inspire the 2007/I-II convention designs. (Collector Peter Hubner has extensive information about this variant.)
Mold: head—Destro (92, 93, 97, 01, 05/II) arms and torso—Destro (92, 97, 01, 05/I) waist and legs—Destro (92, 97, 01, 05/I), M. Bison (93/I, 93/II)
Toy notes: Available in a Toys 'R Us-exclusive 3-pack with Baroness and Cobra Commander. Other filecards have listed Destro's name as James McCullen Destro.

 

Ace		boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive A-10 Thunderbolt
Fighter Pilot		O-4 (Air Force major)	SN: RA 335-98-6725
File Name: Maj. Brad J. Armbruster		Primary MOS: Fixed Wing Pilot
POB: Providence, RI		Secondary MOS: Intelligence Operations
Motto: "You only get one shot at me. When it's my turn, you'll crash and burn."
Appearance: red hair; brown open-collar jacket with vest and black gloves; brown pants with green belt; brown boots.
Accessories: all-brown flight helmet (92 Ace's, hard plastic); black air mask (92 Ace's).
Filecard Information: "You only get one shot at me. When it's my turn, you'll crash and burn." Filecard Information: Ace would rather fly than do anything else. He's a legend in the sky with an outstanding mission record. Ace joined the G. I. Joe team after serving as a Senior Instructor for the U.S.A.F.'s Fighter weapons squadron (a.k.a. the "Aggressors"). Put him in the cockpit of any high-powered craft, and he'll be performing daring aerobatic maneuvers that other pilots would consider impossible. Suffice it to say, he's an expert—qualified to fly the F-5E, F-16, XP-14F, and Ghost Striker X-16 jet. He thought he had reached the top, until the chance to fly low-level ground attacks presented itself. Flying the A-10 Ground Attack jet introduced him to a whole new area, and Ace was ready for the challenge. Gliding just above the trees for a bombing run on a COBRA outpost is almost as fun as winning five straight hands at his favorite card game, poker. Gambling would ordinarily disqualify any applicant from the team, but since he NEVER loses, it isn't really gambling. From General Hawk's File: "Ace is a fast thinker with great judgment. His knowledge of air-combat and dog-fighting skills is extraordinary. A man you can trust anytime except at the card table. He has what it takes to accomplish the mission and bring himself and the aircraft home in one piece. If I didn't trust his skill, I wouldn't ride along with him."
Versions: 1. 1983 (SkyStriker) 2. 1992 (Battle Copter) 3. 1993 (Ghoststriker) 4. 1997 (A-10 Thunderbolt) 5. 1998 (Conquest) 6. 2004/I (Tigerhawk I) 7. 2004/II (Tigerhawk II) 8. 2008 (Comic #115)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Ace (92, 93, 97) arms, torso, waist, and legs—Ace (92, 93, 97), Slip Stream (03)
Toy notes: Note that Ace, whose 1993 version was demoted to O-3, is an O-4 again. The 2008 version was named "Capt. Ace."

 

Duke	Item #28012	carded with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Silver Mirage
First Sergeant		E-9 (Army sergeant major)	SN: RA 213-7577-DU93
File Name: Sgt. Major Conrad S. Hauser		Primary MOS: Airborne Infantryman
POB: St. Louis, MO		Secondary MOS: Artillery
Appearance: brown hair; lime green short-sleeved shirt; white eagle on right chest; green diagonal strap and belt; brown pants with black and green camouflage; red boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); clear visor (standard); black backpack (86 Hawk's); black submachine gun (82 Stalker's M32); black binoculars (83 Duke's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Although not one of the original Joes, Duke quickly rose to the task of being the G. I. Joe team's first sergeant and field commander. Duke is, at his core, a man of action and a highly educated and experienced soldier. He speaks five languages, graduated top of his class at airborne school at Fort Benning, and joined the Special Forces not long after. He served overseas in several areas of Southeast Asia. Duke commands by winning respect and by understanding his team as well as making sure they follow procedure. He's tough as nails, but not so unyielding that he is unable to work with the unusual diversity of a group such as the G. I. Joe team. Duke has turned down several commissions over the years so he could stay in the field. He has absolutley no interest in an officer's rank or a desk job. He wants to be out there with his troops kicking Cobra around wherever they appear. From General Hawk's File: "One of the best additions this outfit has ever had is Duke. The man is a perfect field commander, adaptive to any situation while maintaining control. I can't think of a better soldier to have in the field, watching over the troops and getting the job done. If the Joes are the 'best of the best,' then Duke is one of them."
Versions: 1. 1983 (Mail)/carded 1984 2. 1988 (Tiger Force) 3. 1992 4. 1993/I (Battle Corps) 5. 1993/II (Armor-Tech) 6. 1994 (Star Brigade) 7. 1997 (Silver Mirage) 8. 2001 (RAH Collection) 9. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 10. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 11. 2002/III (JvC Wave 3) 12. 2003/I (BTR Armadillo) 13. 2003/II (Night Force) 14. 2004/I (Action Attack) 15. 2004/II (Wal-Mart) 16. 2004/III (Anti-Venom) 17. 2004/IV (VvV Wave 4) 18. 2004/V (Single Pack) 19. 2004/VI (Voice FX) 20. 2005/I (Desert Humvee) 21. 2005/II (VvV Wave 7) 22. 2005/III (Comic #24) 23. 2005/IV (Heavy Assault) 24. 2005/V (BTR Outpost) 25. 2007 (25th Joe set) 26. 2008 (Comic #24)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/IV) left arm—Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Roadblock (84, 88, 04/II, 05/I), Breaker (97), Double Blast (01, 02), Cobra Squad Leader (05/I, 05/II, Night Trooper (05/I, 05/II), Cobra Trooper (06/II) upper left arm only—Cobra Trooper (04), Zarana (05) lower left arm only—Flint (04/I, 05), CLASSIFIED (06), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) right arm—Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Breaker (97) front torso—Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), some Starduster (87), some Steel Brigade (87), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) back torso—Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Doc (83), some Starduster (87), some Steel Brigade (87), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) waist—Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Gung-Ho (83, 97), some Steel Brigade (87) upper legs—Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Maj. Bludd (83), Tollbooth (85), Alley Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04), Lance "Clutch" Steinberg (07) lower legs—Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Tollbooth (85), Alley Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04), Lance "Clutch" Steinberg (07)
Toy notes:

 

Gung-Ho	Item #28009	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Slugger
Marine		E-7 (Marine gunnery sergeant)	SN: RA 564-88-3900
File Name: Sgt. Ettienne R. LaFitte		Primary MOS: Reconnaissance
POB: Fer-de-Lance, LA		Secondary MOS: Jungle Warfare
Motto: "If you want the job done right the first time, you call me!"
Appearance: dark green hat; bald with brown moustache; open brown vest; blue Marine tattoo on chest; brown and green camouflage pants; black and light blue boots; light blue belt.
Accessories: brown backpack (83 Gung-Ho's, with light blue trim); black grenade launcher (83 Gung-Ho's XM-76); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Gung-Ho was born into a large back-swamp cajun clan. He held both the reputation and the scars as a bare-knuckle brawler and knife-fighter in New Orleans. He joined the Marines at 18 and graduated top of his class from boot camp at Parris Island. When the going gets tough, that's when the Marine corps gets sent in. Gung-Ho is the G. I. Joe's scariest, craziest jar-head of the team. He likes nothing better than racing into battle and catching the enemy off guard. Attended: Airborne shcool, Recondo school, and Marine ordinance [sic, should be ordnance] school. Qualified expert: All NATO Infantry small arms and most Warsaw Pact weapons. He carries the XM-79 grenade launcher as his personal weapon of choice. No man or obstacle stands in his way. From General Hawk's Files: "When the G. I. Joe team has their backs against the wall, that's where Gung-Ho moves in to do some heavy butt-kicking. He fears no enemy and enjoys nothing better than showing off his tattoos before every fight. He's a lean, mean fighting machine. If he ever invites you over for dinner, never let him talk you into trying his special family recipe for Gumbo soup . . . "
Versions: 1. 1983 2. 1987 (Dress Blues) 3. 1992 4. 1993/I (Battle Corps) 5. 1993/II (Mega-Marines) 6. 1997 (Slugger) 7. 2001 (RAH Collection) 8. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 9. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 10. 2002/III (Assault Quad) 11. 2003/I (Built to Rule) 12. 2003/II (JvC Wave 8) 13. 2004/I (Wal-Mart) 14. 2004/II (VvV Wave 4) 15. 2004/III (Night Force) 16. 2004/IV (Desert Patrol) 17. 2005/I (VvV Wave 7) 18. 2005/II (Convention) 19. 2007 (25th Joe set)
Variations: None. head—Gung-Ho (83, 97) left arm—Gung-Ho (83, 97), Roadblock (84, 88, 04/II, 05/I), Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Breaker (97), Double Blast (01, 02), Cobra Squad Leader (05/I, 05/II, Night Trooper (05/I, 05/II) upper left arm only—Cobra Trooper (04, 06/II), Zarana (05) lower left arm only—Flint (04/I, 05), CLASSIFIED (06), Lonzo Wilkinson (06), Cobra Trooper (06/II) right arm—Gung-Ho (83, 97), Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Breaker (97) lower right arm only—CLASSIFIED (06), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) torso—Gung-Ho (83, 97) waist—Gung-Ho (83, 97), some Steel Brigade (87), Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV) upper legs—Gung-Ho (83, 97) lower legs—Gung-Ho (83, 97), Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Tollbooth (85), Alley Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04), Lance "Clutch" Steinberg (07)
Toy notes: Note that Gung-Ho has apparently been demoted from E-9 to E-7. Gung-Ho's code name is not hyphenated for the 2001, 2002/III, 2003, 2004/I, 2004/II, 2005, and 2007 versions.

 

General Hawk		boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive A-10 Thunderbolt
G. I. Joe Commander		O-7 (Army brigadier general)	SN: RA 212-75-4036
File Name: Gen. Clayton M. Abernathy		Primary MOS: Strategic Command Operations
POB: Denver, CO		Secondary MOS: Artillery
Motto: "May the wings of freedom, never lose a feather."
Appearance: brown hair; brown jacket with green holster; grey and black camouflage pants with green belt; brown holster; black boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); black backpack (86 Hawk's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: In his childhood, Hawk always looked to the sky. He was fascinated by the man-made objects streaking over his head with such speed and power. He joined the military and graduated from Officers Candidate School at West Point. Served on cadre with the North Atlantic Command and USA ENG COM EVR missile and Radar training station. He held the position of Missile Commander until he received his General's star and was offered command over G. I. Joe operations. His list of credits are as long as his arm, most of his experience comes from where it counts—on the battlefield. General HAWK is the type of commander who goes out and gets shot at like everyone else. Troops respect that. They know he won't ask them to do anything he isn't willing to do himself. When the government closed down the G. I. Joe program, he was forced to work behind a desk. Using this as a forum, all his efforts went to prove terrorist organizations, such as COBRA, were still a threat and required a special unit to combat them. It didn't take long for the results to be shown, as enemy forces were once again on the rise. The call to arms and return of the G. I. Joe Team was all General Hawk needed. You can find him standing on top of the MAULER Battle Tank as it rolls into battle. FILE EXCERPT from the JOINT-CHIEFS-OF-STAFF: "General Hawk is keenly intelligent and perceptive, quite capable of selfless acts in support of his team. An excellent leader!"
Versions: 1. 1982 (MMS) 2. 1986 3. 1991 4. 1992 (Battle Commanders) 5. 1993/I (Armor-Tech) 6. 1993/II (Mail) 7. 1997 (A-10 Thunderbolt) 8. 2000 (RAH Collection) 9. 2002 (JvC Wave 1.5) 10. 2004/I (Comic #3) 11. 2004/II (Valor vs. Venom) 12. 2005 (Comic #74) 13. 2008 (Comic #1)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Hawk (86, 97), Breaker (97), Rock 'n Roll (97) arms—Hawk (86, 97), Big Ben (03) torso and waist—Hawk (86, 97, 05), Big Ben (03) legs—Hawk (86, 97), Breaker (97), Big Ben (03)
Toy notes: It is unknown whether Hasbro-Kenner intended to release a new version of the Mauler, but the similar MOBAT would be released the following year. The 1982 and 1986 versions were simply named "Hawk." The name was changed to "General Tomahawk" for the 2000 and 2002 versions, and to "General Abernathy" for the 2004 and 2005 versions.

 

Torpedo	Item #28013	carded with Night Landing
Navy SEAL		WO-5 (Navy chief warrant officer)	SN: RA 946-77-5409
File Name: Edward W. Leialoha		Primary MOS: S.E.A.L. (Sea, Air and Land)
POB: Aiea, HI		Secondary MOS: Demolition
Appearance: black diving mask with eyes exposed; black diving suit with red trim.
Accessories: two black flippers (83 Torpedo's); black backpack (83 Torpedo's, with brown tanks); black speargun (83 Torpedo's); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Torpedo is in a league of his own, and he like it that way. He was the first choice to represent the Navy within the G. I. Joe team. As an elite S.E.A.L., he can swim up to 100 yards without scuba tanks, carrying half his weight in underwater explosives. Proficient in three martial art styles, he lives a disciplined life as a strict vegetarian. A highly competent professional in his field, Torpedo's only drawback is his lack of personality. He prefers the company of the ocean, and he really hates pollution. You have to give respect to a guy that can go up against a squad of COBRA Eels, bare-handed, and leave them as fish food. When the G. I. Joe team was closed down by the government, Torpedo continued in service as an Under Water Demolitions instructor. He instituted new methods, and made it the program to enroll in. When he heard the G. I. Joe team was re-organizing its members, Torpedo promptly returned. Using the stealth of darkness, Torpedo silently floats into enemy territory with his Night Landing S.E.A.L. Raft. From General Hawk's Files: "If discipline is the key, Torpedo is the lock. Torpedo's talent in underwater demolitions is extraordinary. When he sets his mind to something, nothing stands in his way. I've never seen anybody hold their breath as long as this guy either. I value his judgement and his skills."
Versions: 1. 1983 2. 1997 (Night Landing) 3. 1998 (3-Pack) 4. 2003 (Spy Troops) 5. 2004/I (VAMP) 6. 2004/II (Built to Rule) 7. 2008 (25th Wave 6)
Variations: None.
Mold: Torpedo (83, 97), Wet Down (01)
Toy notes: Note that Torpedo has been promoted from WO-4 to WO-5. Versions from 2003 onward are named "Chief Torpedo," and the 2008 version is "Lt. Torpedo."

 

Alley Viper	Item #28008	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Rage
Cobra Urban Assault Weapon		Primary MOS: Urban Assault Trooper
		Secondary MOS: Rage Vehicle Driver
Motto: "We take every city by force."
Appearance: blue helmet with brown face mask; blue and white camouflage shirt and pants; gold grenades on chest; black gloves and boots.
Accessories: black visor (93 Alley Viper's); black shield (93 Alley Viper's); black assault rifle (86 Dial-Tone's HK 53); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Alley Vipers are the Cobra equivalent of a police S.W.A.T. unit or British S.A.S. (Special Air Service). They form the spearhead of Cobra's inner-city invasion forces. This elite contingent of marauders are true masters of brutality, possessing a style of ruthlessness not present in other Cobra soldiers. Recruited from the most diabolical combat divisions, Alley Vipers use various forms of treachery to achieve their objectives. In order to graduate from their intense training program, they are required to survive a full burst of machine gun fire across their frontal body armor, execute a thirty foot jump onto concrete with full combat gear, and run down a hundred meter gas-filled corridor without a gas mask! Alley Vipers are big and strong, as well as fierce looking. Their body armor alone weighs 50 pounds and they carry at least 30 pounds of weapons, ammo grenades, and climbing gear. If you hear the roar of their Rage tanks coming down your street, lock all your doors, and hope they are passing by. If you hear knocking at your front door, don't expect it to be the pizza guy!
Versions: 1. 1989 2. 1993 (Battle Corps yellow) 3. 1994 (Battle Corps red) 4. 1997 (Rage) 5. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1.5) 6. 2002/II (JvC Wave 2.5) 7. 2003 (JvC Wave 7.75) 8. 2004 (Urban Strike Team)
Variations: The figure pictured on the Rage box back differs from the released figure; most notably, it lacks white camouflage and appears to have the 1989 version's head and visor.
Mold: head, arms, torso—Alley Viper (93, 94, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04) waist—Alley Viper (89, 93, 94, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04) upper legs—Alley Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04), Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Maj. Bludd (83), Tollbooth (85), Lance "Clutch" Steinberg (07) lower legs—Alley Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 03, 04), Duke (83, 88, 97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Tollbooth (85), Lance "Clutch" Steinberg (07)
Toy notes: The related figure Alley Viper II was released in 2004.

 

Viper	Item #28016	carded with Trubble Bubble
Cobra Infantry Trooper
Motto: "Greed, ambition, and ruthlessness."
Appearance: purple helmet with silver goggles and faceplate; purple shirt and blue vest with black straps; black and purple gloves; purple pants with black belt and boots.
Accessories: black backpack (86 Viper's); black submachine gun (82 Stalker's M32); black figure stand.
Filecard Information: Vipers are the backbone of the Cobra Legions. They are the bottom of the pyramid, which leads to the hierarchy of material wealth and power within the organization. When COBRA Commander received word that G. I. Joe operations had been shut down by the U.S. Government, he promptly began recruiting more soldiers. Within weeks, the most cruel, greedy, back-stabbing lot joined the ranks; tripling the original size of their ground forces. All Vipers are issued a combination assault rifle/grenade launcher, along with a three day field pack. Multi-layered body armor and wrap-around acrylic/composite helmets with built-in radio telecommunications gear are standard issue. This equipment and a bad attitude makes them very dangerous opponents. Vipers are highly motivated, and superbly trained. However, to make them follow orders, the punishment for failure is to be left on battlefield when the B.A.T.S. (Battle Andriod Troopers) are deployed. This is due to the fact, these Androids are programmed to shoot and incinerate anything that moves in front of them. That is the last thing any Viper would want, better to take his chances with the real enemy. Vehicle Specialty: COBRA Flight Pod a.k.a. "Trouble Bubbles" [sic]. "If you want to get anywhere in Cobra, you have to start out as a Viper. That's the bottom of the pyramid, and serving in the Cobra infantry is a small price to pay to gain access to the glittering prizes at the top. Cobra doesn't reward success with parades and medals. They offer material wealth, power, and an outlet for the terrible urges that drive the greedy, the envious, and the cruel. If that doesn't make a Viper a dangerous opponent, nothing does!"
Versions: 1. 1986 2. 1989 (Python Patrol) 3. 1991 (Sonic Fighters) 4. 1994 (Battle Corps) 5. 1997 (Trubble Bubble) 6. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1.5) 7. 2002/II (Crimson Strike Team) 8. 2002/III (JvC Wave 2.5) 9. 2003/I (Venom Cycle I) 10. 2003/II (Venom Cycle II) 11. 2003/III (JvC Wave 7.75) 12. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1) 13. 2004/II (VvV Wave 5) 14. 2005 (VvV Wave 7) 15. 2006/I (Viper Pit silver) 16. 2006/II (Viper Pit gold)
Variations: None.
Mold: head, arms, and torso—Viper (86, 89, 91, 97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98) waist and legs—Viper (97, 02/I, 02/II, 02/III, 03/I, 03/II, 03/III, 06/I, 06/II), BAT (86), Cobra Officer (98), Cobra Trooper (98)
Toy notes: The 1989 version was named "Python Viper."

 

Breaker	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Communications Officer		E-5 (Army sergeant)	SN: RA 757-79-3518
File Name: Sgt. Alvin R. Kibbey		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: Gatlinburg, TN		Secondary MOS: Computer Technology
Motto: "You get me into the action, I'll get us out."
Appearance: brown hair; lime green vest with brown straps; green pants with black and brown camouflage; black belt and boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); clear visor (standard); black backpack (86 Hawk's); black laser rifle (82 Flash's XMLR-1A).
Filecard Information: Breaker established himself as the G. I. Joe team's first communications expert. He is the link between the battlefield and headquarters. Manning the radio may seem like an easy job for some, but it's as crucial to operations as ammunition is to any weapon. Without the radioman, you lose the ability to call in an air strike, provide artillery coordinates, request a Medivac or find the extraction site. The key is to treat the equipment like a crystal vase. Breaker never takes it off, and constantly monitors all the frequencies, providing situation reports to the command center. His ability to crack enemy codes and to jam their transmissions keeps the team one step ahead. Along with his specialized education, he speaks seven languages. During the last major battle with COBRA forces, Breaker was wounded and required a lengthy recovery. During this time, he began to study computer technology. Knowing that modern battlefield operations had become computer coordinated, he qualified himself with the latest hardware. As soon as he received word that the original team was re-organizing, he was ready to return and use his new area of expertise to its full advantage. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "Breaker is efficient and self-assured. He has the uncanny ability to turn adverse situations to his favor. His one annoying trait is his constant need to chew gum and pop bubbles with it. The team often wonders which is more sticky, his beard, or the situations that he seems to always get out of."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 3. 2005 (Comic #9) 4. 2008 (Comic #14)
Variations: Card art shows that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1982 version. Some shirts were a darker green.
Mold: head—Breaker (97), Hawk (86, 97), Rock 'n Roll (97) left arm—Breaker (97), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Roadblock (84, 88, 04/II, 05/I), Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV), Double Blast (01, 02), Cobra Squad Leader (05/I, 05/II, Night Trooper (05/I, 05/II) upper left arm only—Cobra Trooper (04, 06/II), Zarana (05 lower left arm only—Flint (04/I, 05), CLASSIFIED (06), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) right arm—Breaker (97), Gung-Ho (83, 97), Duke (97, 04/III, 05/III, 05/IV) lower right arm only—CLASSIFIED (06), Lonzo Wilkinson (06) torso—Breaker (97), Roadblock (86), Rock 'n Roll (97) waist—Breaker (97, 05), Roadblock (86), Guile (93/I, 93/II), Rock 'n Roll (97, 05), Snake Eyes (97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Gen. Abernathy (04/I), Sgt. Stalker (04/II, 05/I, 06) legs—Breaker (97), Hawk (86, 97), Big Ben (03)
Toy notes: Note that Breaker has been promoted from E-4 to E-5. The reference to Breaker's injury is an attempt to reconcile the new figure with the fact that Breaker died in the comic. Hawk's quote is odd considering that this version of Breaker does not have a beard (and the gum-chewing character never did in the comic on which this year's filecards are based). The 2005 version was named "Alvin 'Breaker' Kibbey." The 2008 version was named "Cpl. Breaker."

 

Grunt	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Infantry Trooper		E-6 (Army staff sergeant)	SN: RA 527-79-623
File Name: Sgt. Robert W. Graves		Primary MOS: Infantry Squad Leader
POB: Columbus, OH		Secondary MOS: Small Arms Repairman
Motto: "I expect results, not excuses!"
Appearance: black hair, off-white shirt with brown and green camouflage; black straps; green pants with black boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); black backpack (86 Hawk's); black assault rifle (82 Cobra Officer's AK-47).
Filecard Information: Grunt was part of the original G. I. Joe team from its inception. He finished his tour of duty and decided the team had its fair share of infantry soldiers. He went on to pursue an engineering degree, then started his career in his hometown. Despite his numerous job offers, Grunt still felt the desire to crawl in the mud and jump into foxholes with his comrades. As soon as he received word that the original team was re-organizing, Grunt jumped on the first plane back. He's a stand-up kind of guy who knows how to keep his head down during a firefight. As squad leader, Grunt is always ready to guard the front lines and support his teammates. It's up to him to take the point and avoid bad situations. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "My first choice as platoon squad leader, Grunt has proven his talents on the battlefield. He knows when to advance and when to duck and keep his head down in a firefight. The troops trust him to maintain composure and lead them through bad situations. He's always ready to take the point, and volunteers for ever mission Duke has to offer. I consider the man as the backbone of what every infantry trooper should strive to be."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1983 (Falcon Glider) 3. 1991 4. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 5. 2003/I (Battle Blitz I) 6. 2003/II (Spy Troops) 7. 2003/III (Battle Blitz II) 8. 2004/I (Night Force) 9. 2004/II (Comic #4) 10. 2007 (Convention)
Variations: None. head—Grunt (82, 83, 97), Grand Slam (82, 83), Zap (82, 97) arms—Grunt (82, 83, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Zap (82, 97, 04), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) torso—Grunt (82, 83, 97), Breaker (82, 05), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Hawk (82, 04/I), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/IV, 05/VI), Mortal (06), Alex "Sparks" Verdi (07) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) waist—Grunt (82, 83, 97), Breaker (82), Flash (82), Rock 'n Roll (82), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Snake Eyes (82), Stalker (82, 97), Zap (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Grand Slam (82, 83), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03) upper legs—Grunt (97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Mortal (06) lower legs—Grunt (97), Flash (82), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Grand Slam (82, 83)
Toy notes: Note that Grunt has been promoted from E-5 to E-6. In an inexplicable error, 1982 Clutch is pictured on the filecard.

 

Rock 'n Roll	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Machine Gunner		E-7 (Army sergeant first class)	SN: RA 989-09-1452
File Name: Sgt. Craig S. McConnel		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: Malibu, CA		Secondary MOS: Physical Training Instructor
Motto: "COBRA's retreat is music to my ears."
Appearance: yellow hair; lime green short-sleeved shirt with dark green straps and red highlights; black gloves; brown pants with green and black camouflage; black boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); black machine gun (82 Rock 'n Roll's M60) with bipod.
Filecard Information: Rock 'n Roll joined the G. I. Joe team at its inception. He was a young, naive surfer who became one of the outfit's most valuable members. Still, he's an adult who refuses to grow up. He uses every chance he gets to break out his electric guitar and blast something he calls—music. When G. I. Joe was shut down by the government, Rock 'n Roll decided to go on a spiritual crusade, searching for the perfect wave. After a brief tour, he received word that the orginal team members were re-organizing, and wanted back in with a passion. Rock 'n Roll missed the ear-splitting sounds of his favorite machine gun, and the great friendships he acquired with his teammates. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "This is a guy that loves loud noises, whether it be from his machine gun or favorite electric guitar. Rock 'n Roll is very loyal and a good friend to all the team members. He likes to joke around a lot; however, he is very serious when it comes to his job. We rely on him to lay down cover-fire, which allows the team to reach their target without a scratch. Dependable at every turn, and always ready to lend a helping hand—or extra ammo belt (whichever the case)."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1989 3. 1992 (Super Sonic Fighters) 4. 1993 (Armor-Tech) 5. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 6. 2001 (Headquarters) 7. 2005 (Comic #8) 8. 2007 (Convention)
Variations: Some copies had very dark skin. Card art and pre-production photos show that this figure was intended to be a repaint of the 1982 version.
Mold: head—Rock 'n Roll (97), Hawk (86, 97), Breaker (97) arms—Rock 'n Roll (97), Roadblock (86) torso—Rock 'n Roll (97), Roadblock (86), Breaker (97) waist—Rock 'n Roll (97, 05), Roadblock (86), Guile (93/I, 93/II), Breaker (97, 05), Snake Eyes (97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Gen. Abernathy (04/I), Sgt. Stalker (04/II, 05/I, 06), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Mortal (06) legs—Rock 'n Roll (97), Roadblock (86), Guile (93/I, 93/II), Breaker (97)
Toy notes: The 1989 version was spelled "Rock & Roll."

 

Scarlett	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Counterintelligence		E-6 (Army staff sergeant)	SN: RA 242-96-7434
File Name: Sgt. Shana M. O'Hara		Primary MOS: Counterintelligence
POB: Atlanta, GA		Secondary MOS: (CLASSIFIED)
Motto: "Beauty may only be skin deep, but I'm lethal to the bone."
Appearance: red hair, purple shirt with orange vest and waistpiece; black gloves and boots; purple leggings.
Accessories: black crossbow (82 Scarlett's XK-1).
Filecard Information: Scarlett was one of the first female members of the G. I. Joe team. She is as beautiful as she is deadly. Scarlett earned her black belt in Tae Kwon Do at the age of fifteen, and has continued her training in several other martial arts. Her skills at intelligence gathering are top notch. An expert undercover operative, she has gone up against the best COBRA had to offer. They never knew she was there. When the government closed down the G. I. Joe program, she considered it a chance to make up for her strained working relationship with Snake-Eyes. Taking up residence with him in his mountain cabin, the time off helped them heal their battle scarred hearts, and ultimately form a much stronger bond. In her spare time, Scarlett began teaching women's self-defense seminars at various universities. She received word of the re-organization of the G. I. Joe team members, and returned with her partner. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "I call it a blessing to have Scarlett on the team. She's tough, smart, reliable, and okay—beautiful. She keeps the team in line, and the enemy on their toes. I value her skills as both a martial artist and an undercover operative. Snake-Eyes and she have been through a lot. They work well as a team, on and off the battlefield. I'd put her up against the best COBRA has to offer, and sleep well at night, knowing she will return—mission accomplished."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1993 (Ninja Force) 3. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 4. 2002/I (JvC Wave 2) 5. 2002/II (JvC Wave 3) 6. 2003 (ToyFare) 7. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1) 8. 2004/II (Comic #2) 9. 2004/III (VvV Wave 5) 10. 2004/IV (Single Pack) 11. 2005 (Comic #9) 12. 2007 (25th Joe set) 13. 2008 (Comic #1)
Variations: None.
Mold: head and lower legs—Scarlett (82, 97, 03) arms, torso, waist, and upper legs—Scarlett (82, 97, 03, 05)
Toy notes: Versions in 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2007 were named "Agent Scarlett."

 

Short-Fuse	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Mortar Soldier		E-5 (Army sergeant)	SN: RA 380-22-5432
File Name: Sgt. Eric W. Freistadt		Primary MOS: Artillery
POB: Chicago, IL		Secondary MOS: Infantry Engineer
Motto: "Make me mad, and I'll get more than even."
Appearance: red hair; green shirt with brown straps (one horizontal) and black pockets; green belt and beige/brown pants with brown pockets and black boots.
Accessories: green helmet (small standard, with visor holes); clear visor (standard); green backpack (82 Short-Fuze's, with black shells); green bazooka (82 Zap's); black mortar (82 Short-Fuze's) with stand.
Filecard Information: Short-Fuse was chosen from the top of his class, to join the G. I. Joe team at its inception. He comes from a traditional military family—all career soldiers. His artillery experience and expertise helped the JOES win many battles. He can actually plot artillery azimuths and triangulations in his head. His love for abstract mathematics makes him somewhat of a nerd, however, no one would dare tease him. It seems he's quite sensitive about it and can lose his temper very quickly, hence his code name . . . Short-Fuse continued his regular military service until he received word about the original G. I. Joe team re-organizing its members; he returned with full support. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "In all my days, I've never seen a guy remember the information he does. Short-Fuse can plot artillery triangulations in his head, faster than someone with a compass. He pinpoints targets with over ninety-five percent accuracy and provides the team with a huge advantage. The one thing you don't want to do around him is mock his gift of intelligence. The guy's temper flares up mighty quick, and everyone best stand back to let him cool down. He loves his job and can be counted on to lend the support we need."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 3. 2004 (Night Force) 4. 2005/I (Comic #8) 5. 2005/II (Winter Ops)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Short-Fuze (82, 97), Flash (82), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Starduster (87) arms—Short-Fuze (82, 97), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Zap (82, 97, 04), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) torso—Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Zap (82, 97) waist—Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Breaker (82), Flash (82), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Rock 'n Roll (82), Snake Eyes (82), Stalker (82, 97), Zap (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Grand Slam (82, 83), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03) legs—Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Breaker (82), Grunt (82, 83), Rock 'n Roll (82), Stalker (82, 97), Zap (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI)
Toy notes: The 1982 and 2004 versions were spelled "Short-Fuze," and the 2005 version was spelled "Short Fuze" (without the hyphen).

 

Snake-Eyes	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Commando		E-7 (Army sergeant first class)	SN: (CLASSIFIED)
File Name: (CLASSIFIED)		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: (CLASSIFIED)		Secondary MOS: Hand-to-Hand Combat Instructor
Motto: "Actions speak louder than words."
Appearance: black face mask with grey goggles; black shirt with grey straps; black pants with grey belt; black grenade on chest; black boots.
Accessories: black explosives pack (82 Snake Eyes's); black pistol (82 Snake Eyes's Uzi).
Filecard Information: Snake-Eyes is the perfect weapon, a man of total discipline who honed his combat skills with a Long Range Recon Patrol in Southeast Asia. The squad included Stalker and Storm Shadow, who would later become members of G. I. Joe. His martial arts skills stem from training with the Arashikage ninja clan (relatives of Storm Shadow). Following a horrific accident, his face was scarred and his vocal cords damaged, taking away his ability to speak. Snake-Eyes is a total mystery; almost all that is known about him is that he is the best at whatever he does—#1 on the G. I. Joe "Best of the Best" list. He is proficient with all known NATO weapons and explosives, as well as edged weaponry. Many of his missions are Top Secret and so highly covert that knowledge of their existence is not officially recognized. After many years of highly successful operations, the government decided that Snake-Eyes and the G. I. Joe team had served their purpose, and disbanded the operation. With his partner Scarlett, Snake-Eyes retired to his mountain cabin in the High Sierras. He used the time to find inner peace; however, watching the ills of society from his mountain retreat, he found himself unable to sit back and remain idle. When the word was given that the G. I. Joe team was re-organizing its original members, Snake-Eyes seized the chance to return to duty and once again make a difference. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "I could say so much about this man, but I can't—it's CLASSIFIED. He is the best I have ever seen, no one can compare. A skilled martial artist and warrior, Snake-Eyes is like a pit bull, nice to family and friends, but fierce to all those that cross his path on the wrong side. I do all I can to keep him leashed. Let him go and he's sure to tear up more than the enemy's yard. I've seen him take out an enemy squad with nothing but a metal spoon. If that doesn't intimidate you, I don't know what would. We're glad he's on our side."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1985 (w/ Timber) 3. 1989 4. 1991 5. 1993 (Ninja Force) 6. 1994 (Shadow Ninjas) 7. 1997/I (3-Pack) 8. 1997/II (Stars & Stripes) 9. 2000 (RAH Collection) 10. 2002/I (JvC Wave 1) 11. 2002/II (JvC Wave 1.35) 12. 2002/III (Sound Attack) 13. 2002/IV (JvC Wave 3) 14. 2003/I (ToyFare) 15. 2003/II (DVD w/ Timber) 16. 2004/I (VvV Wave 1) 17. 2004/II (Comic #2) 18. 2004/III (Ninja Lightning) 19. 2004/IV (Comic #4) 20. 2004/V (Desert Patrol) 21. 2004/VI (Built to Rule) 22. 2005/I (Ninja Battles) 23. 2005/II (VvV 7 w/ Timber) 24. 2005/III (Single Pack) 25. 2005/IV (Comic #21) 26. 2005/V (Winter Ops) 27. 2005/VI (Heavy Assault) 28. 2006 (Comic #26) 29. 2007/I (25th Wave 1) 30. 2007/II (25th Joe Set) 31. 2008/I (25th Wave 5-6) 32. 2008/II (Comic #21) 33. 2008/III (Comic #21b)
Variations: None. head—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/II, 04/IV), Mortal (06) arms—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Zap (82, 97, 04), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) torso—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Breaker (82, 05), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Hawk (82, 04/I), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/IV, 05/VI), Mortal (06), Alex "Sparks" Verdi (07) waist—Snake Eyes (97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Roadblock (86), Gen. Abernathy (04/I), Guile (93/I, 93/II), Breaker (97, 05), Rock 'n Roll (97, 05), Sgt. Stalker (04/II, 05/I, 06), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Mortal (06) upper legs—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Grunt (97), Mortal (06) lower legs—Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Flash (82), Grand Slam (82, 83), Grunt (97), Mortal (06)
Toy notes: Snake's name is not hyphenated for the 1982, 1989, 1991, 1997/I, 2002, and later versions. The 2006 version was named "CLASSIFIED."

 

Stalker	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Ranger		E-8 (Army master sergeant)	SN: RA 725-05-4399
File Name: 1SG Lonzo R. Wilkinson		Primary MOS: Infantry
POB: Detroit, MI		Secondary MOS: Medic / Interpreter
Motto: "Follow me, and I'll lead you to victory."
Appearance: African-American; black moustache; black beret; green camouflage outfit with black, brown, and light green camouflage; beige straps and belt; black boots.
Accessories: green backpack (82 Grunt's); black submachine gun (82 Stalker's M32).
Filecard Information: Stalker was a member of a street gang prior to his enlistment. He was a member of the same Long Range Recon Patrol as Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow, in Southeast Asia. As one of the original G. I. Joe team members, he had many successful campaigns against COBRA. He's a take charge kind of guy—intelligent, perceptive, and remains composed under stressful situations. When the government closed down the G. I. Joe program, he decided to return to his hometown to give something back to the community. Stalker established a gang intervention program to clean up the streets. He received word that the team was re-organizing its original members, and decided to return along with his comrades. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "He has the experience and the knowledge to handle tough situations. Stalker seems to have the reflexes of a jungle cat, like he almost knows what his opponents are going to do, before they do. I call that skill, he calls it being perceptive. Very dedicated and a true asset to our ranks. He works best under stress, his mind is like a steel trap—with really sharp teeth. I feel sorry for the enemy that sticks their foot in."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1989 3. 1992 (Battle Commanders) 4. 1993 (Arctic Attack Force) 5. 1994 (Battle Corps) 6. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 7. 2002/I (JvC Wave 2) 8. 2002/II (JvC Wave 3) 9. 2003 (Tiger Force) 10. 2004/I (Valor vs. Venom) 11. 2004/II (Comic #3) 12. 2004/III (Desert Patrol) 13. 2005/I (Comic #7) 14. 2005/II (Winter Ops) 15. 2006 (Comic #26) 16. 2007 (25th Wave 3)
Variations: None.
Mold: head—Stalker (82, 97) arms—Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Zap (82, 97, 04), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) torso—Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Breaker (82, 05), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Hawk (82, 04/I), Zap (04), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/IV, 05/VI), Mortal (06), Alex "Sparks" Verdi (07) waist—Stalker (82, 97), Breaker (82), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Flash (82), Rock 'n Roll (82), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Snake Eyes (82), Zap (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Grand Slam (82, 83), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03) legs—Stalker (82, 97), Breaker (82), Grunt (82, 83), Rock 'n Roll (82), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Zap (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI)
Toy notes: Note that Stalker has been promoted from E-7 to E-8. Versions from 2002 onward were named "Sergeant Stalker." The last 2005 version is known as "Lonzo R. Wilkinson," rather than by a code name.

 

Sergeant Zap	Item #28020	boxed with Toys 'R Us-exclusive Stars & Stripes Forever Set
Bazooka Soldier		E-7 (Army sergeant first class)	SN: RA633-98-0744
File Name: Sgt. Rafael J. Melendez		Primary MOS: Combat Engineer
POB: New York, NY		Secondary MOS: Infantry
Motto: "I open tanks like they were sardine cans."
Appearance: black hair; white and black shirt; green pants; black straps (one horizontal), belt, and boots.
Accessories: green helmet (standard, with visor holes); black backpack (82 Short-Fuze's, with green shells); green bazooka (82 Zap's).
Filecard Information: Sgt. Zap was chosen among the first to join the G. I. Joe team in its early days. His specialty was in armor-piercing and anti-tank weapon systems. As the team expanded, he moved more towards demolitions. It became his job to teach the new recruits their practical factors to qualify for ranks. It's amazing to watch him work with high-explosives devices and remain composed. His professional attitude gained him a great reputation as an instructor. When the call went out to re-organize the original G. I. Joe team members, he jumped at the chance. Being somewhat old-fashioned, he returned using his favorite hand-held bazooka, not as high-tech as some of the weapons he's used but definitely reliable. After the team's first encounter with COBRA forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared—STARS and STRIPES FOREVER! From General Hawk's Files: "Here's a guy that not only likes blowing things up, we pay him to do it. Sgt. Zap maintains his cool at all times. Setting up explosive devices is nerve racking, but he handles it and keeps coming back for more. A true professional and well-liked both for his abilities and his courage. My advice is to keep your helmet on when he's around, something will be exploding nearby."
Versions: 1. 1982 2. 1992 (Super Sonic Fighters) 3. 1997 (Stars & Stripes) 4. 2004 (Comic #4) 5. 2007 (Convention)
Variations: Some backpacks were green with black shells (identical to 97 Short-Fuse's).
Mold: head—Sgt. Zap (82, 97), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Grand Slam (82, 83) arms—Sgt. Zap (82, 97, 04), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97), Snake Eyes (82, 97/I, 97/II, 03/I, 03/II, 04/IV, 05/IV), Stalker (82, 97, 04/II, 05/I), Hawk (82, 04/I), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI), Alvin "Breaker" Kibbey (05), Mortal (06) upper arms only—Snow Job (83) torso—Sgt. Zap (82, 97), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I) waist—Sgt. Zap (82, 97), Breaker (82), Flash (82), Grunt (82, 83, 97), Rock 'n Roll (82), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Snake Eyes (82), Stalker (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Grand Slam (82, 83), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03) legs—Sgt. Zap (82, 97), Breaker (82), Grunt (82, 83), Rock 'n Roll (82), Short-Fuze (82, 97, 05/I), Stalker (82, 97), Clutch (82, 84), Hawk (82), Steeler (82), Lt. Falcon (03), Infantry Division (05/I, 05/II, 05/III, 05/IV, 05/V, 05/VI)
Toy notes: Note that Zap has been promoted from E-6 to E-7; however, the filecard still describes his rank as "Staff Sergeant" (which should be E-6). All other versions were simply named "Zap."

Equipment:

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