Superheroes and Military Service: From Comic Books to Realities

When it comes to discussing superheroes, many of us think of the vibrant, colorful characters from comic books, movies, and television. But what if we were to blend these fictional figures with real-life military service? Could a superhero be a viable addition to a military team, and if so, how could they serve in a realistic setting?

Superheroes in Comic Books vs. Military Culture

The idea of a superhero is often an idealized representation of what we wish our society to be, or what Hollywood would like us to believe. The typical superhero dynamo is portrayed as a rugged individualist with a strong chin and a physique reminiscent of Chippendale dancers. However, in the military, individualism takes a backseat to teamwork and collective effort. Being a superhero does not necessarily fit into the team-oriented culture of the military.

Take, for example, the infamous case of SSG Edmundo F. Estrada at Fort Eustis, Virginia. In 2004, Estrada was accused of forcing a male trainee to dress as Superman and engage in sexual acts. He also faced charges of indecent assault, inappropriate relationships with trainees, and cruelty and maltreatment. He pleaded guilty to particular charges and was sentenced to six months in the brig. This incident underscores the potential for a disconnect between the superhero persona and the military code of conduct.

Superman: The Ideal and the Reality

Superman, the iconic hero, is often depicted in comic books as the quintessential superhero. However, in real life, the portrayal of Superman as a rugged individualist can be somewhat misleading. For instance, consider the Cadence Chant version of Superman, where he has a fight with the narrator, hitting him with Kryptonite and claiming to date Lois Lane.

Me and Superman we had a fight. I hit him in the head with some Kryptonite. I hit him so hard I busted his brain. and now Im dating Lois Lane.

In reality, a 77-page story like War Comic Book Super Green Beret portrays a different version of Superman, one that is more aligned with military themes. Another example is the 2017 article Race: How Superman defeated the KKK, which highlights Superman's involvement in real-world contexts, such as overcoming racial discrimination.

Spiderman as a Military Fit

Spiderman might fit comfortably into a military setting. His background, with its abandonment issues and smart-alecky personality, could be relatable to many soldiers. Peter Parker, as Spiderman, is a quick thinker and adaptable, traits that are highly valued in the military. For instance, if Spiderman were to join the military, he could thrive in a unit that values intelligence and agility, such as a specialized intelligence branch.

Alternatives like Soldier Boy or Captain America could serve roles similar to enlisted personnel and officers, respectively. Soldier Boy, while not a typical character, embodies the qualities of an average E-6, while Captain America’s leadership and combat skills align him with the ideal of officers.

Other Superheroes in a Military Context

Other superheroes could fit into a military context, but with some significant adaptations. Wolverine, for instance, with his longevity and adaptability, could be a suitable fit for an E-4 cavalry scout or infantry grunt. Similarly, Colossus could excel in roles that require physical strength and resilience.

Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) and Doom (Doctor Doom) also stand out. Reed, with his scientific prowess, could find a home in the military's research and development sector. Doom, while controversial, might be a complex fit, potentially like Col Jessup, a figure who is both respected and disliked.

Thor: A Complex Fit

Thor, the powerful Norse god, presents a more complex fit. His role in the MCU is less about combat and more about leadership and resource management. If depicted in the comics, his combat skills might align with his military capabilities. However, due to his unpredictable temperament, he might not be the best fit for every military environment.

On the other hand, the versions of Banner (Hulk) and Stark (Ironman) would likely be unsuitable. Banner’s transformation into the Hulk could disrupt military operations, and Stark’s egotistical personality might not align with the teamwork required in a military setting.

In conclusion, while superheroes from comic books and movies could potentially fit into military service, their roles and equipment would need to be carefully adjusted to align with real-world military culture. The ideal of a solo superhero may not mesh well with the essential team ethos of the military, highlighting the importance of adaptability and flexibility in both roles and settings.