TITLE: Soft Targets

Summary

Previously, the terrorist group, Al-Tariq has taken the town of Centerville hostage. The majority of the townsfolk were at Easter service, when the terrorist leader, Faygal Al-Tariq, booby-trapped the church with bombs. Within one hour, the bombs will detonate, unless Captain America can save the day.

Captain America has to work his way through terrorist soldiers, who happen to be just children. As well trained as they might be, they are no match against Cap. But during the fight, one of the children pulls the pin out of a hand grenade and blows himself up in a failed attempt to kill Captain America.

As Captain America makes his way to the church, Faygal spews his anti-American rhetoric. It turns out that Centerville was targeted because the town's factories manufactures bombs. Like many terrorists, Faygal distorts logic to fit his views. He sees himself not as a terrorist, but as a messenger to Americans.

When Captain America reaches the church, he battles Faygal one-on-one. In the end, Captain America does what he has to do to save the town: he kills Faygal to prevent him from blowing up the town. It may not be the first time Captain America has killed in the line of duty, but the decision to do so does not come easily. He may be the ultimate symbol of America, but Steve Rogers made the decision to kill Faygal. In an effort to separate the actions of one man from the nation he represents, Captain America removes his mask to address the world as Steve Rogers.

Opinion

Okay, what's going on with all these heroes exposing their secret identities? First it was Iron Man, then Daredevil (sort of), and now Captain America. It's not that secret identities are that believable, especially in this day and age where privacy may soon become a thing of the past. But Marvel icons revealing their secret identities somehow seems too contrived. I guess the whole premise of villains harming those closest to them is no longer enough of a concern...

So far, the team of John Ney Rieber and John Cassaday is producing a Captain America that is more patriotic, if that is at all possible. The WTC bombing has changed Captain America's purpose, and has altered the tone of the comic.

Conclusion

The comic is important in some ways, and will probably sell well. But is it fun to read? The current story arc has been dark and bleak, making it hard to enjoy. This is especially true when terrorism is now in the back of our minds. Still, the team of Rieber and Cassaday is doing an admirable job crafting a high caliber comic book.