Episode 42: The Janus Directive Parts 9 and 10

Welcome back Squadmates.  Here is Episode 42: The Janus Directive Parts 9 and 10

First up this month, we crack open Checkmate 18....

Checkmate 18

Checkmate #18

Cover Date: June 1989
On Sale Date: April 25, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50
Title: "Knight Fight"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Gaspar Saladino
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Cover Credits
Artist: Gil Kane

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Synopsis:
After learning that Kobra has pitted several government agencies against one another, the leaders of each agency join forces to oppose the cult leader. The President appoints Sarge Steel to take charge of the operation. Steel divides the resources, consisting of the Checkmate, the Suicide Squad, Firestorm, Captain Atom, Major Force, and Peacemaker into three units. First Firestorm and Captain Atom force Kobra spaceark from orbit, then a second unit consisting of Checkmate and Suicide Squad members board the ship. From inside, Manhunter works to free the hostages held by Kobra, including Dr. Megala. During the attack, Kobra is angered and decides to utilize his microwave weapon to defeat his foes.

Then at thirty minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 30

Suicide Squad #30
Cover Date: 1989
On Sale Date: May 2, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Title: "Endgame"
Writer: John Ostrander
Writer: Kim Yale
Penciller: John K. Snyder III
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Editor: Robert Greenberger


Cover Credits
Artist: Karl Kesel

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Synopsis:
The combined forces of Checkmate, the Suicide Squad, Project Atom, and several other heroes assault the space ark of Kobra. Inside, the teams find Manhunter who had infiltrated Kobra's ninja army. During the battle Silent Majority and Lady Liberty are both killed. Kobra tries to escape, but Manhunter stops him.

Fearing that the ark will crash into a populated area, Sarge Steel orders a nuclear strike which will kill all those still on board. Firestorm and Captain Atom destroy the missile before it can harm anyone
In the aftermath, the President reorganizes the intelligence community. Sarge Steel, head of the CBI, is appointed as an overseers. Wade Eiling, head of Project Atom, now reports directly to Steel. Harry Stein retains control of Checkmate which is now independent of Task Force X which has been resolved. Peacemaker is assigned to Checkmate. Major Victory is assigned to the Suicide Squad which continues under Amanda Waller's leadership.

Commercials played this episode:
Silver and Gold Podcast

Fire and Water Podcast

Thank you once again for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

 The following week, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the second week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The conclusion of The Janus Directive.

And coming soon, A Tale of Two Worlds: A Heroes Unlimited Podcast...

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 41: The Janus Directive Parts 7 and 8

Hey Squadmates.  Here we go...  I proudly present to you: Episode 41: The Janus Directive Parts 7 and 8

As per the episode name, we are continuing our look at... The Janus Directive.

First I introduce my special guest, The Irresponsible..err The Irredeemable Shag.  Shag talks about himself a little (a subject matter he loves and is an expert at) and about Firestorm's history.

During our conversation, he mentions some material that was sent out to comic shops a month before hand.  You can view that at:

http://firestormfan.com/2010/03/08/elemental-firestorm-promotional-efforts/

http://firestormfan.com/images/firestorm86preview.pdf

Once I can get a word in edgewise, we actually look at the issue in question (with no Ninja counting from me).

Firestorm 86: Janus Directive 7

Firestorm (the Nuclear Man?) #86
Cover Date: June 1989
On Sale Date: April 11, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00
Title: "Home Fires Burning"

Writer: John Ostrander
Artist: Tom Mandrake
Letterer: Duncan Andrews
Colorist: Nansi Hoolahan
Editor: Dennis J. O'Neil
Cover Credits
Artist: Tom Mandrake

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Notes on this issue:
Parasite next appears in Starman 13, which I covered in Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour 17 (From July).

He last appeared in Firestorm 82 (concluding story from Invasion), and then before that was back during the Suicide Squad/Firestorm crossover we covered back in Episode 12 (all issues covered somewhere on The Headcast Network).

Then at 1 hour and 12 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 29: The Janus Directive 8

Suicide Squad 29
Cover Date: 1989
On Sale Date: April 18, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Title: "Heavy Squad"
Writer: John Ostrander
Writer: Kim Yale
Penciller: John K. Snyder III
Inker: Pablo Marcos
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Editor: Robert Greenberger

Cover Credits
Artist: Karl Kesel
Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Listen in as we discuss these two issues of the great Janus Directive crossover.

Commercials played this episode:

Fire and Water Podcast

Who's Who Podcast

From Crisis to Crisis: A Superman Podcast

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

 The following week, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the second week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The next part of The Janus Directive.  Checkmate 18 and Suicide Squad 29.

And coming soon, A Tale of Two Worlds: A Heroes Unlimited Podcast...

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 40: The Janus Directive Parts 5 and 6

Hey Squadmates.  Here we go...  I proudly present to you: Episode 40: The Janus Directive Parts 5 and 6

As per the episode name, we are continuing our look at... The Janus Directive.

First up, is Checkmate 17!

Janus Directive 5: Checkmate 17

Checkmate 17
June 1989
On Sale Date: April 11, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50

Title: "A Hard Day's Knight"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Gil Kane
Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Then at 30 minutes in, we take a look at....

Manhunter 14

Manhunter 14
Cover Date: June 1989
On Sale Date: April 11, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Title: "Misdirection"

Writer: Kim Yale
Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Doug Rice
Inker: Pablo Marcos
Letterer: Albert Tobias De Guzman
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Doug Rice

Editor: Barbara J. Kesel (Randall)

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Listen in as we discuss these two issues of the great Janus Directive crossover.

Commercials played this episode:

Firestarter

Married with Comics

Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

 The following week, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The next part of The Janus Directive.  Checkmate 18 and Suicide Squad 29.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 39: The Janus Directive Parts 3 and 4

Hey Squadmates.  Here we go...  I proudly present to you: Episode 39: The Janus Directive Parts 3 and 4

As per the episode name, we are continuing our look at... The Janus Directive.

First up, is Checkmate 16!

Checkmate 16

Checkmate #16
Cover Date: May 1989
On Sale Date: March 28, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50

Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Title: "Shadow Knights"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Rick Hoberg
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Gaspar Saladino
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Gil Kane

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Then at 30 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 28 - Part 4

Suicide Squad #28
Cover Date: 1989
On Sale Date: April 4, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Editor: Robert Greenberger
 
Title: "Death Game"

Writer: Kim Yale
Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: John K. Snyder III
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Cover Credits
Artist: Karl Kesel

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Listen in as we discuss these two issues of the great Janus Directive crossover.

Commercials played this episode:

DC OCD: Where Mike and Paul take a look at all of the DC Crossover events.

Done In One Wonder Show: Xum Yukinori's great show.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The next part of The Janus Directive.  Checkmate 17 and Manhunter 14.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 38: The Janus Directive Parts 1 and 2

Hey Squadmates.  We're back with Episode 38: The Janus Directive Parts 1 and 2


This month we start our look at the crossover, The Janus Directive.

First up, is Checkmate!

Checkmate 15 - Janus Directive 1

Checkmate #15
Cover Date: May 1989
On Sale Date: March 14, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50
Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Title: "Knight Kill"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Agustin Mas
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)
Cover Credits
Artist: Gil Kane

And to hear me talk about this issue with the group over at Longbox Crusade, check out Episode 14 which was released Feb 22 2018.

Then at 29 minutes and 50 seconds in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 27
Cover Date: 1989
On Sale Date: March 21, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00
Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Scattermove"

Writer: John Ostrander
Writer: Kim Yale
Penciller: John K. Snyder III
Inker: Pablo Marcos
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford

Cover Credits
Artist: Karl Kesel
Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad: The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Commercials played this episode:

It Came From Syndication

Done In One Wonder Show

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The next part of The Janus Directive.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 37: The Exorcist and the Squad.

Hey Squadmates.  We're back with Episode 37: The Exorcist and the Squad.

Before we get to the Suicide Squad, Amanda visits the Justice League....

Justice League America #27
Cover Date: June 1989
On Sale Date: April 11, 1989
Cover Price: $0.75

Title: "Mindsnap"

Penciller: Keith Giffen
Scripter: J. Mark DeMatteis
Penciller: Ty Templeton
Inker: Josef Rubinstein
Inker: Dick Giordano
Letterer: Bob Lappan
Colorist: Gene D'Angelo
Editor: Andrew Helfer

Reprinted In:
Justice League International Vol. 4 HC (2009)
Justice League International Vol. 4 TPB (2010)

Cover Credits
Penciller: Ty Templeton
Inker: Josef Rubinstein

And during the podcast, I talk about the Exorcist movie poster...

See?  Very nice homage there....

Man.. that JLA cover is nice....

Anyways... moving on....

Then at about 41 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad #26
Cover Date: April 1989
On Sale Date: March 7, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00
Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Stone Cold Dead"

Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Grant Miehm
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:The Janus Directive TPB (2016)

Cover Credits
Artist: Karl Kesel

Commercials played this episode:

JLI: Bwhahaha Podcast.

Longbox Crusade

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming next month.... The Janus Directive.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).

Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 36: BlackThorn and The Trial concludes!

Hey Squadmates.  Here we go with Episode 36: BlackThorn and The Trial concludes!

First up we get a look at Black Thorn:

Checkmate 14: BLACKTHORN!

Checkmate 14
Cover Date: April 1989
On Sale Date: February 14, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50
Page Count: 32
Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Cover Credits
Artist: Art Thibert


This issue has several creative teams contributing to one over all story:
Story 1 Title: "Neighborhood Watch"
Pages: 8

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Artist: Tod Smith
Letterer: John Costanza
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter

Story 2
Title: "Knight of the Living Dead"
Pages: 9

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Paris Cullins
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Albert Tobias De Guzman
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter

Story 3  Title: "Hot Property"

Pages: 7

Writer: Paul Kupperberg

Artist: Eduardo Barreto

Letterer: Bob Lappan

Colorist: Julianna Ferriter

Blackthorn is robbed and has to retrieve something precious to her.

Then at 33 minutes in, we get a double Character Profile (yes, it's back for now).  We look at the newest Squad couple, Punch and Jewelee.

Then at about 40 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 25

Suicide Squad 25
Cover Date: March 1989
On Sale Date: February 7, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Sea of Troubles"

Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Grant Miehm
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:Rogues TPB (2016)

Commercials played this episode:

Waiting For Doom: This is where Paul Hix and Mark Garvey (both previous guests) sit around waiting for... DOOM (The Doom Patrol, not the Doctor).

WHO’S WHO – THE DEFINITIVE PODCAST OF THE DC UNIVERSE: Shag and Rob cover the great DC comic book series, Who's Who.

Head Speaks - The home of my main podcast where I'm currently covering the Armageddon 2001 crossover.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming soon.... The Janus Directive.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).
Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 35: A Knight In the Tropics and The Squad on Trial

We're back, on time, with a regular episode...  Episode 35: A Knight In the Tropics and The Squad on Trial

First up we look at:

Checkmate 13.... fun in the sun...  or not.

Checkmate #13
Cover Date: March 1989
On Sale Date: January 17, 1989
Cover Price: $1.50

Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Title: "A Knight in the Tropics"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Penciller: Rick Hoberg
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Agustin Mas
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Art Thibert

Stein takes his boys on a Caribbean vacation.... What could go wrong?

Then at about 30 minutes in, we take a look at....

Comic Title: Suicide Squad #24
Cover Date: February 1989
On Sale Date: January 10, 1989
Cover Price: $1.00

Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Slings and Arrows"

Writer: John Ostrander& Kim Yale
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford

 Cover Credits
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel

Reprinted In:
Suicide Squad:Rogues TPB (2016)

Synopsis: from Mikes
Following the public exposure of the Suicide Squad's activities, Amanda Waller is called to testify before a senate committee led by Warren Eden. To ensure, that the individual Squad members are unavailable to give testimony, Waller sends the team on a mission to East Africa to rescue Sister Agnes Martinon. Nemesis quits the group rather than comply with Waller's orders. Simon LaGrieve also tenders his resignation.
The Bronze Tiger leads the Squad to Africa where they locate the rebel camp where Martinon is believed to be held. They arrive too late as troops from the African nation's current government has already attacked the camp. They have taken Martinon and they have no intentions of setting her free.

Commercials played this episode:

Comics With Normies - This is a show where my podcasting buddy Jarrod Alberich gives a comic to a normie and gets their reaction.

Head Speaks - The home of my main podcast where I'm currently covering the Armageddon 2001 crossover.

It All Comes Back To Superman - Where Podcasting Godfather, Michael Bailey, shows all it... well, all comes back to Superman.  Great show.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.  And coming soon.... The Janus Directive.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).
Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 34: Elections and Invasions!

Squadmates, not only was I a couple of days late with the episode, but I forgot to post the show notes page...  Very sorry about that.. but here it is...  Episode 34: Elections and Invasions! 

This month, we get a double dose of Suicide Squad....

Suicide Squad 22

Comic Title: Suicide Squad #22
Cover Date: 1988
On Sale Date: November 1, 1988
Cover Price: $1.00
Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Final Round"

Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Cover Credits
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel

As I talk about in the episode, if memory serves correctly, this is the first issue of Suicide Squad I picked up off the stand.

Special times..

Anywho....

Synopsis from Mikes Amazing world of comics:

Amanda Waller sends the Suicide Squad to Washington to stop Rick Flag from killing Tolliver and Senator Cray by any means necessary. They arrive too late to prevent the murder of Tolliver. The group splits up to search the city for Flag. Deadshot finds him at the Lincoln Memorial with Cray in his sites. Deadshot prevents Flag from killing Cray by shooting the Senator himself. When the police arrive moments later they open fire on Deadshot. He is hit multiple times, but he survives. Flag disappears, and despite his efforts the story of the Suicide Squad is publicly exposed.

Then at about 36 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 23

Comic Title: Suicide Squad #23
Cover Date: January 1989
On Sale Date: December 6, 1988
Cover Price: $1.00

Title: "Weird War Tales"

Writer: John Ostrander
Writer: Kim Yale
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Editor: Robert Greenberger

Cover Credits
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel

Synopsis: from Mikes
John Economos meets with the Bronze Tiger to discuss his recent mission to Russia during the alien invasion. He, Vixen, and the Duchess battled the Thanagarians and Okaarans alongside the Rocket Red Brigade. The New Guardians and Soyuz were also involved in the battle.

Nemesis pays a visit to Nightshade. He tells her about his mission to Australia to battle the Khunds. On the return trip Captain Boomerang was thrown off a boat by several Australians. He is considered an embarrassment in his homeland.

Elsewhere in Belle Reve, Simon LaGrieve and Marnie Herrs evaluate potential candidates for the team. Marnie announces that she is quitting. Flo receives a mysterious communication from someone named Oracle. Nemesis becomes the latest victim of a pie in the face just after seeing a mysterious black light flash in the sky.

Commercials played this episode:

First Strike: The Invasion Podcast

Quantum Leap Podcast

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).
Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 33: Invasion Hits Checkmate!

Squadmates,we're back for a second month in a row with Episode 33: Invasion Hits Checkmate!  We're almost a week late, but we're here.

Funny story about that.  I spent the past week trying to find time to finish recording this episode.  I had to finish up my thoughts on issue 12 and do my end closing.  This past Sunday, the wife and kids went to church, so I had an hour or so to myself.  I thought, I'll get Task Force X done.... pulled it up, and low and behold, looks like I had already finished recording... just had to throw commercials in... Well, son of a gun... So long story long, here is Episode 33.

On this episode, first up, I look at:

Checkmate 11

Checkmate #11
Cover Date: Holiday 1988
On Sale Date: October 11, 1988
Cover Price: $1.25
Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Title: "God Save the Queen"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Agustin Mas
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Gil Kane

Synopsis from Mikes Amazing world of comics:
Following the alien invasion of Earth, a group of terrorists takes over the House of Parliament in England. Checkmate Knight Lionel Hawkins responds to the threat. He defeats the gunmen who, although human, have aligned themselves with the aliens. The group's leadership remains at large and is planning to assassinate the queen. Checkmate tracks the group and captures most of them. Only four men escape. When they stage their attack at the estate of Lord Benchly, the Knight thwarts their attack. He is nearly killed by the leader of the terrorists, but Scott Jameson shoots the gunmen before he can execute Hawkins.

Then at about 30 minutes in, we take a look at....

Checkmate 12

Checkmate #12
Cover Date: February 1989
On Sale Date: December 13, 1988
Cover Price: $1.25

Editor: Jonathan Peterson

Title: "Knight Launch"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: Steve Erwin
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: John Costanza
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Cover Credits
Artist: Art Thibert

Synopsis (from Mike's Amazing World of Comics):
During the alien invasion of Earth, Cape Canaveral was attacked. The damage set back the American space program. One shuttle, the Atlantis commanded by Colonel Ben Rogers, survived the attack. An urgent mission is put together for the shuttle team to launch a tri-sat defense satellite. However, a series of technology thefts lead Checkmate to believe that someone inside the space program is trying to sabotage the mission.
Knight Connie Webb joins the shuttle crew. She uncovers flight engineer Dick Guilardi, who has taken navigation technology intended for a planned Mars mission. He dies before he can reveal his plan or his accomplices.

When the mission gets underway, Colonel Rogers reveals himself as another traitor. He tries to guide the shuttle toward the alien fleet in orbit. He hopes to gain interstellar technology from the aliens. However, before they can reach the fleet, it leaves orbit following the alien defeat by Earth's heroes. Webb takes down Rogers and completes the mission to launch the satellite.
Before they return to Earth, the remaining crew witnesses a small alien ship fire a device toward Earth which detonates in an explosion of black light.

Something new I'm doing, I'm going to start listing the commercials I play this episode.

This time out I play:

Everybody Loves The Drake

Who’s Who in the DC Universe

Krypton Podcast

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).
Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!

Episode 32: Checkmate 10 and Suicide Squad 21

Again, Squadmates, I welcome you back to our newest episode!  After a lengthy hiatus (which I apologize for) I present to you Episode 32: Checkmate 10 and Suicide Squad 21

On this episode, first up, I look at:

Checkmate 10

Checkmate 10
 
Cover Date: Winter 1988
On Sale Date: September 13, 1988
Cover Price: $1.25

Title: "Funny Money Part 2"

Writer: Paul Kupperberg
Penciller: John Statema
Inker: Al Vey
Letterer: Helen Vesik
Colorist: Julianna Ferriter
Editor: Jonathan Peterson


Synopsis from Mikes Amazing world of comics:
Claymore, a member of a gang of counterfeiters, has tracked a Checkmate knight back to Koning Industries. To gather more information, Claymore kidnaps pawn Rene Rockwell when she is leaving the facility. He tortures and kills her for information.

Claymore then leads a strike against Checkmate headquarters. He holds Harvey Bullock at gunpoint and demands that the masked man be brought out. Gary Washington fights him and rescues Bullock.

Meanwhile, knight Roger Dayton has infiltrated the gang of counterfeiters. He is able to recover stolen printing plates, take possession of the counterfeit currency, and capture the gang.

Then at 30 minutes in, we take a look at....

Suicide Squad 21

Suicide Squad 21
Cover Date: 1988
On Sale Date: October 4, 1988
Cover Price: $1.00

Editor: Robert Greenberger

Title: "Rogues"

Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel
Letterer: Todd Klein
Colorist: Carl Gafford
Cover Credits
Penciller: Luke McDonnell
Inker: Karl Kesel

Notes:
Contains Bonus Book #10

Synopsis:
Amanda Waller meets with Tolliver. She blackmails him into ending his threats to expose the Suicide Squad. She then returns to Belle Reve where June Moone shoots Eve Eden. Eve survives, but just before she enters surgery, she tells Waller that Rick Flag has left on a personal mission. The mission takes Flag to Washington where he confronts and murders Tolliver.

Bonus Book #10
Title: "Deadly Perspective"
Pages: 14

Writer: Larry Ganem
Penciller: Peter Krause
Inker: Frederik Butler
Letterer: Helen Vesik
Colorist: Matt Webb

Synopsis:
The Bronze Tiger is sent to stop a hired assassin named Neiko from killed a political leader. He studies his opponent and fights off an attack by two killers Neiko sent to test him. Eventually, the Bronze Tiger and Neiko face one another face-to-face. Ben wins the fight and demands that Neiko break his contract. Neiko agrees, but he promises to take his revenge at some time in the future.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Task Force X.

Be sure to check the Facebook page for news and further information. That's where I tend to post information as it comes to light.

And you can still get directly to our page by going to taskforcex.headspeaks.com.

Other news for the Headcast family.

As usual, The Headcast Network is where you can find all of my podcasts under one feed.

Over on The Starman/Manhunter Adventure Hour, where I'll be talking about the Will Payton Starman and Mark Shaw Manhunter comics.

Then, look for G.I. Joe: A Real American Headcast the first week of the month, where we look at G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero comic from Marvel.

The following week, look for Head Speaks,where In February, I've started my multi-episode look at Armageddon 2001 where I have guests from the internet and podcasting world join me every episode.

Finally, be sure to return next month and listen as I talk about Suicide Squad and Checkmate.

Again, thanks for listening and be sure to tell people about us. Also write in and let me know what you think of this episode!

All characters are owned and copyrighted by DC Comics. Check out DC Comics for the monthly adventures of the New Suicide Squad.

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please e-mail me at TaskForceX@HeadSpeaks.com (and you too can be read in Listener Feedback).

If you want you can also send us an MP3 file with your thoughts and I'll play them on the air.

Look for us on Facebook and Google+ (look for Task Force X).
Make sure to tell a friend and check back next month for another great episode of TASK FORCE X!