Captain America, Avengers back in free comic book Published Aug. 24, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Mark Matthews Army and Air Force Exchange Service DALLAS -- What's in the case? Why are the contents so top secret not even the commander is privy to its existence? Why is it secretly being hand carried by a noncommissioned officer? These answers and more are available for free at Exchange Stores worldwide in the latest installment of the free military-only "Avengers" comic book provided by the Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Marvel Custom Solutions. "The level of cooperation and commitment between Marvel and the Exchange is outstanding," said Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson, Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Exchange. "This is the 13th comic book we've worked on together and my hope is there are many more to come." "All of us here at the House of Ideas greatly respect and admire the actions that the men and women of the U.S. military perform every day to ensure our freedom," said Marvel Custom Solutions Editor Bill Rosemann. "The world saw the Avengers assemble in the record-breaking movie, but now only the real-world heroes of the military get to enjoy this all-new, action-packed adventure by the all-star creative team including writer William Harms, penciler Tom Raney and cover artist Alan Davis." This 22-page story tells the tale of a message intercepted by the Super Villain mercenary squad Serpent Society, stating that a package of unknown contents is being transported from Afghanistan to America by Sgt. Joe Wilton. As a group of Soldiers, along with Wilton, are returning home from deployment at the Atlanta International Airport, the Serpent Society attacks, seeking the case which they believe will grant them a fortune. It doesn't take long for Captain America, the other Avengers and the returning service members to spring into action to protect innocent civilians and the secret contents of the case. Captain America, Iron Man, Hawkeye, Thor, the Hulk and a plane full of service members stand ready once again to protect America from the ill will of the Serpent Society. However, this time the hero of the moment is a noncommissioned officer and his unwavering determination to complete his "top secret" mission and deliver the precious cargo. Marvel and the Exchange have printed one million copies of the free comic book and are currently available at Exchange stores worldwide while supplies last. "These comic books are a great medium for us to show our appreciation and gratitude for U.S service members," Pearson said. "This particular story is one of duty, integrity, loyalty and courage, something all Soldiers and Airmen can personally connect with."