DOG TAG #2 (Mad Cave Studios)
After his work helped the Allies win the day on D-Day, Tom Fuller has been reassigned to active duty in France as an NCO of a small squad. As they move to the interior of the country the threats rise. Fuller’s squad is tasked on getting recon from a town where it’s believed the Germans have abandoned. Will they be ambushed or will they prove the road is all clear?
Dog Tag #2 - Written By Mark Russell – Art By PJ Holden - Colors By JP Jordan - Letters By Buddy Beaudoin -Edited By Jon Moisan - Published ByMad Cave Studios
Credit: Mad Cave Studios
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
STORY OVERVIEW:
Tom Fuller has now been deployed to France to join the forces that are pushing the Germans back. He has been promoted to Corporal as a reward for his work on the D-Day deception. His squad has been ordered to go ahead and make sure that the town of Saint-Lô is clear of Germans. On their way there they come across a Nazi scout, who is all alone. He tells them that Saint-Lô has been abandoned by the Nazi’s and all should be clear for them. Can he be trusted though? There is only one way to find out and the squad will need to get creative if they hope to survive.
WRITING:
This issue continues to bring the war to life. Mark Russell captures what war is and the drama and concerns that come up during war. The way Russell uses the character of Tom Fuller to represent the average Joe who is forced to go to war is eye opening. Even though Fuller isn’t ready to lead he is thrusted into it and must learn the ropes. The way Fuller balances the written rules and the unwritten rules speak to the gray areas of war. Russell captures these moments and puts the reader in the hot seat to decide what’s right and wrong. This world, just like the real world isn’t black and white and Russell captures this perfectly.
ARTWORK:
The artwork in this issue perfectly matches the story’s tone. PJ Holden captures both the atmosphere of war and the toll it takes, with detailed backgrounds and military machinery that place readers directly on the front lines. Holden avoids glorifying combat while still presenting its harsh realities. JP Jordan’s color palette is equally strong, making each panel stand out while using earthy tones that fit the era and reinforce the story’s mood.
Check Out My Review of DOG TAG #1
Final Thoughts:
Dog Tag #2 continues to bring World War II to life, while showing us a different story type for the war. Focusing more on the drama and emotions of war, well still showing action and the consequences of said actions. This series operates in the gray areas of war and doesn’t shy away from the stark realities of war either. If you like war stories, you will love this series. Head to your LCS and grab a copy today.
FINAL GRADE: 9/10
Let me know your thoughts on Dog Tag #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
