G.I. Joe #36

Published by Marvel Comics in June 1985, G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #36 was written by Larry Hama with artwork by Mike Vosburg. As part of a series that revitalized the G.I. Joe franchise through intricate military narratives and character-driven storytelling, this issue exemplifies Hama’s hallmark approach of blending high-stakes combat with distinct personality development. The issue features a mission involving the G.I. Joe team deep behind enemy lines, continuing the long-running struggle between the Joes and the terrorist organization known as Cobra.

The visual language of the issue reflects the grit and kinetic energy prevalent in 1980s action comics. Mike Vosburg’s illustrations maintained the grounded, pseudo-realistic aesthetic that defined the series, which was heavily influenced by Hama's own background and his desire to treat the toys not just as commercial products, but as soldiers in a complex, serialized war. Like many issues of this era, #36 was aimed at a broad audience of young readers and collectors, contributing to a massive success that helped Marvel Comics dominate the licensed property landscape throughout the decade.