Tuesday, February 22

Atlas World News! - Winter *Special* Ed. 6

*Special*
 1937 Winter Ed.6

RUSSIAN INVASION BEAT BACK!
          Explosions! Aerial battles! Armoured War Zeppelins! what this battle didn't have, wasn't worth seeing. Everyone is talking about it, and Atlas World News is here to give you the real deal, the full scoop, the truth they want to hide.
          A full-scale invasion into the Republic of Texas took place last month, at approximately 0800 hrs. It was a combined effort between Russian military Zeppelins and their communist allies, the People's Collective. They pushed down from the north, across the protectorate of Oklahoma, while the Red Bear loomed up from the south coast.
          Our reporters were able to get exclusive & confidential information from the Texas Air Rangers intelligence branch themselves.
          "We had seen a rise in criminal activity, particularly piracy in the months leading up to the incident. Especially the murderous Fighting Daredevils squadron, who we now believe have been long-term members of the Communist Party, and involved in aiding the Invasion itself."
          "While we sough political ammnity with French Lousisana, it is clear now that was never on their agenda, but they have genoursly lent their militia forces and resources to our cause."
          "Unfortunately, we could not have foreseen the incident itself, or the scale of the Rushki's forces, but the Texas Air Rangers proved that Texas makes the best planes, and that it has the best pilots!"    - Militia Captain, Jebidiah Johnson
          Despite these claims, there are some who believe that the Republic of Texas knew about the invasion long before it took place, and that president Austin Crockett was himself personally informed that morning. It has been suggested that by allowing the invasion it would solidify Texan nationalism, giving them the public support, and excuse they needed, to take out French Louisiana and  the People's Collective in one foul blow.
The Texas Air Rangers proved that Texas makes the best planes, and that it has the best pilots!         
          While eyewitness reports of the battle itself vary from; nothing but a Communist activist riding a pig, all the way up to Aliens with rockets that can reach the Moon! It has been attested by our trusted sources that the Russians fell foul of our old friend: Hydrogen.
          "I was watching the planes and zeppelins trading fire and paint, when I saw a brave Air Ranger strafe the Zeppelin topside turrets. 'Foolish' I thought, 'poor kid will get shot up before he hit the ground'. But, sure enough he Doubled-Down with all his guns. They must've been Magnesium rounds and I bet he was surprised as I was."
          "Like a blazing sun, more intense than any 4th o' July that thing went up! Then an earthshatter BANG flew across the sky, knocked me off my feet it did. I look'd up in time to see the fireball grow bigger and bigger, it engulfed the previous fire it did. Must've been large racks of bombs they were carrying, going up as well.
          "The blast was so big it took out another one o' their airships! Haha, a chain of three of them got going! And here and there, other ones went up as they hollered down their radios at each other. It was a sight to see that's for sure."
          Many have now criticised the Texas Air Rangers claim to the daring gallantry of their defence, as more and more people are coming forward and attributing it to this lucky fluke. Several eyewitnesses now testify that in fact Texas was desperately loosing the battle, and through sheer luck were saved. A small minority have suggested however, that it was a new type of Aerial Torpedo which the Republic is secretly developing.
Like a blazing sun, more intense than any 4th o' July
          While theories and scandals run rampant, you know you can trust Atlas World News Reader to bring you the true story, and what you really want to know. Many readers have asked us "What happened to the Fighting Daredevils?"
          It is no secret, that many pirates groups were hired by the Russians to fight on their side for the invasion, such as The Red Scarlets, The Houdinis, A splinter IRA group, The Michigan Marauders, and some sources even claim Jesse Coe (the missing daughter of Jackson Coe) was involved as well.
          Our reporters picked up from the wire, that The Fighting Daredevils were paid for their service with a Texas Air Ranger Zeppelin. While the Rangers themselves claim that no Zeppelins were captured, one was spotted crossing the Oklahoman border, heading for the infamous Sky Haven. Could these be our Daredevils? Maybe the Russians escaped to begin their plots again, or did this Zeppelin carry secret weapons the Texans are trying to hide?
          The Republic of Texas has come and publicly stated that is has no weapons to hide. The majority of the other American nations believe this claim, because this is Texas, and if they had a new and even bigger gun, they would  want to show it off.
          There is now considerable tension between numerous American nations and Russia. The Kremlin has come out and stated that it was not involved in the invasion, that a number of military grade Zeppelins were stolen and that these men acted on their own.
          But the accusations still fly, and the war with a now isolated People's Collective will rage on, as Texas tries to get a foothold in before winter comes in. For now though, piracy has gone down as Security and Militia Forces re-double their efforts, and the scavengers root through the crashed Zeppelins, just a few miles outside Dallas.
 
     - Written By: Hughie 'Albatross' Mason.

Friday, December 17

Air Action Weekly! - Autumn 1937 Ed. 5

 
 

North America's #1 Publication Covering Topics Important to Aviators and Aviation
   
A Stinking Mess
   Our reporters were at the scene for a historic day last week, the elite of French Louisiana and the Republic of Texas had gathered at the gala event of the year, to witness the signing of the Peaceful Non-Aggression Pact by the leaders of these two great nations, on the Steamboat "The Routledge".
   Then, without warning or cause, the Fighting Daredevils attacked the Steamboat and the party-goers on board, but not with explosives. Instead they dropped a stink bomb the likes of which our reporters have never smelt!
   "It was like...rotting eggs on a manure heap, which had been left in the sun all day and dipped in...sewage!"
   The 135lb stink bomb caused mayhem and distress, as ladies in formal ball gowns leapt from the deck to escape the smell. It is confirmed that one man has died from extensive vomiting. That the Fighting Daredevils got through the French Louisianan security has caused both outrage and suspicion from Texas.

All Quiet on the Southern Coast
   Pockets of Southern Texas have become dead zones, no-one has heard any communication from these areas for weeks. Any effort to investigate them have either returned with nothing, or not returned at all.
   We sent one of our reporters - Hughie Hudson - to investigate the area in his Ford Hoplite Autogyro (Courtesy of Lenny Lou's Emporioum, Sky Haven). From the area everything seemed normal, upon closer inspection many towns in this area were deserted. Any civilians he was able to find, refused to make a comment.
  "A terrible fear has gripped this place" explained Hughie, "it would seem...something dark, has gripped these towns".
   In accordance with this, the CoeOil refinery and depot on south shore - suspected of a Fighting Daredevils raid last month - has become a 'black zone' and reports of heavy military activity have been coming in.
   "They say: red sky at night, shepherd's delight. The shepard takes warning, when there is a 'red dawn' in the morning" concluded Hughie Hudson, before staring dramatically towards the sunset.

REDMANN DOWNED!
   As hard as it may be to believe folks, Bill "Marshall" Redmann has reportedly been shot down, in a daring and bloody dogfight with the Fighting Daredevils!
   Our sources tell us that Redmann himself and his brutal femme fatale, Anna "Kossack" Rasputin - as our interviewer found out! Ed. 3 still available from our catalogue - flew to the deserted Daredevil airstrip and strafed them on the ground.
   Getting to their planes, they got airborne and the fight got heated! Their new pilot "Scout", showed himself to be a tough customer, taking a collision with the "Kossack" and a high calibre round through his body and kept flying! It was suggested by the boys at the press that he should be known as the "Immortal" instead.
   As things turned the Daredevils way, a wing of 'Vampires' carrying high explosive bomb dove straight for their hangers, demolishing buildings, turrets and even the shower-room! A morning few of us would want to face in these modern days of luxury.
   "Kossack" was downed and Redmann went into a blind rage and like a cornered beast lashed out. Unfortunately, the devious flying of the Fighting Daredevils shot him down and his plane crashed into the cliff face. A similar fate his plane had suffered at the hands of 'The Outlanders' several months ago. Will he emerge again and take to skies folks? It doesn't look good says this reporter.

Work Available for Keen Pilots
   Looking for able bodied pilots to escort cargo Zeppelins across Texas. Must be well armed, combat experienced, and have no particular aversion to the Communist party. Fluent Russian speakers welcome. Must be ready to fly in the next week.
   Reply c/o Air Action Weekly.

 

Tuesday, November 30

Air Action Weekly! - Autumn 1937 Ed.4

 

North America's #1 Publication Covering Topics Important to Aviators and Aviation
 
Broken Shamrocks, Broken!
   Last week a torrent of bullets ripped apart Planes, buildings and innocent people! The Pirate Gang 'The Broken Shamrocks' were beaten out of the sky by the brutish Fighting Daredevils (incorporated). "And if that wasn't enough" said a Spokesman for the French Airborne Foreign Legion, "They strafed civilians who were having a barn dance in one of the hangers! Murderous fiends, will they stop at nothing!".
   In an interesting turn in current affairs, French Louisiana and The Republic of Texas are in talks to have a temporary truce (While Texas goes for Dixie it seems). Part of this 'allegiance' will include a coalition of their respective resources, to bring the Fighting Daredevils to justice.

C.C.C.P Seen Overhead!
    A Hell's March of suspicious aircraft and Zeppelins were seen overhead yesterday, in Roswell, Arixo. Pirate turned Pirate Hunter, Chogan of the Thunderhawks reported to say "We have yet to confirm it, but our spotters think they had C.C.C.P marking on them" When pressed on the matter he said "Russians? Well...I have my suspicions."
 
Massacre at St. Ives Hospital
   Broken glass covers the street outside. The acrid smell of spilt floor cleaner is everywhere, thankfully it covers the smell of all the cadavers laid out in the street. Emergency forces rush in and out of the once proud hospital, which still burns in its torment.
   In a malicious terrorist attack on downtown Dallas last week, the Town Hall, St. Ives Hospital, The Police station and several government buildings, were all attacked. St. Ives suffering the worst of it. The Pilots came around for another pass to fire rockets into the Maternity Ward and many of Texas elite on the 6th floor. Emergency staff think they've found a survivor and are quoted as saying: "But, I think he's a damn Red Russian." 
  The pirates suspected of this attack are the Fighting Daredevils, and the Texas Air Rangers have declared an all out attack on them. "They won't be able to set foot in a civilised settlement with that price on their head!" Laughed a Marshal who was on the scene. 

Wanted! Fighting Daredevils
   Members of the Fighting Daredevils (inc.) are wanted DEAD or Alive. Evidence to bring about their arrest, or death, is also expected for a minor reward. Contact a Texas Air Ranger Marshal with proof of your deed (Fingers not allowed) to collect your Reward.
   c/o Texas Air Ranger HQ, Austin, Box 450, Republic of Texas. Frq: 234 kHz.

   REWARD !
Dead - $8,000
Alive - $5,500

Coe is "Ready for Revenge"
   "I will see to it, that those motherless dogs! Those wretched Urchins! Will lie rotting at the bottom of the sea, once I'm through with them." Jackson Coe told reporters today. "Mr Jackson Coe is not best pleased at this current moment" explained his correspondent.
   One of the, if not, the most esteemed businessman in Texas, C.e.o. of 'CoeOil', advisor and personal friend to the President, has every right to be angry.
   Our resources tell us that he received a 'ransom note' for his daughter, Jesse Coe (Seen Right). She was last seen at a Formal Gala in Dallas. But, informants say that she is known for her wild spirit and may of been at the Broken Shamrock's dance, when the Fighting Daredevils stuck.
  "Nobody takes my property, and gets away with it!" bellowed Coe. While the Texas Air Rangers are mobilised to find Miss Jesse Coe, her father roared that he is "Read for Revenge!" 
   Story Continued on pg. 3, along with suspicious pictures of the illustrious Miss Coe herself!

Looking For More: Rounding-up a Posse.
   Looking for capable and brave pilots to go collect the bounty on the Fighting Daredevils. We already have a few local rogues and a real 'Tank' flying with us. Contact Jim "The Damage" Johnson. Frequency: 209 kHz. (List Achievements)
   

Thursday, November 18

Air Action Weekly! - Autumn 1937 Ed.3

North America's #1 Publication Covering Topics Important to Aviators and Aviation
 
Gunner, Looking for work
     Experienced gunner looking for squadron to fly with. Skilled shot, who won't buckle under pressure. 5' 7" so will fit into most turrets, Athletic build, enjoys long walks on the beach.
     Respond c/o Joey "Buddy" Holmes, Box 634, Boulder, FC. Or call "Buddy" on 487 khz.
 
Hardly used! Hot off-the-line!
      This Bell MKII Valiant could be yours! Fresh out of factory in the Valiant's home in the Dixie heartland. An absolute steal at just $9,750!
      It's agile and fast! With Acceleration like you've never seen! Carries 6 30-Calibre machine guns, a punch for any pilot! Be the envy of your friends and purchase this Valiant, today!
      Reply to "Loose" Lenny Louis, Box 451, Springfield St, "Lenny Lou's Emporium", Sky Haven.
 
An Interview with the 'Kossack' herself!
      That's right ladies and gentlemen, here at Air Action Weekly we were lucky enough to talk to Russian femme fatale of Redmann's Gang, herself - Anna "Kossack" Rasputin!
      Those piercing eyes, her sharp features and a curvaceous body to rival that of the Black Swan's - was all our interviewer got to say, before she delivered a roundhouse kick to his face. She promptly followed with "Why thank you, they told me you journalist-types were such sweet talkers".
      After rearranging our interviewer and his questions, we settled down to Coffee with the deadly mistress of Redmann's Gang.
      "So Anna, not only are you one the best Pilots in Redmann's outfit, but you are also his long term lover. How do you balance that in the Sky? Has it ever clouded your judgement?"
      "The only cloud I see is the blood red rage that surges through me. It's Euphoric da? Redmann's knows to stay clear of me once I get going."
       "Now Anna, there are lots of young dashing pilots out there-"
       "Yes, I know. I have shot many down."
       "Er - But, would you ever consider leaving Redmann?"
       "Hmmm...Maybe if I found someone who shared my love of strafing civilians. But, only maybe."
       "Anna "Kossack", thank you very much for coming in today."
       "My pleasure. Dasvidania, Babycakes."
       For the full interview, and details on our Interviewer's face, turn to pg. 17! 
 
A Man's Methods Are Best Left Be
      It would seem in recent months that Aerial Piracy has developed into a formidable force, posing quite a threat to both security and safety. Unbalancing the status-quo, particularly that of wealth. Indeed it is a shame to see such sums of money disappear.
     It would be a greater shame however, to see the contents of, say, Warehouse 159 disappear. The motives and subsequent actions of such aerial men, and women, cannot be judged so easily. I feel understand the necessity such men face in their actions. A man must make his own way in the world after all.
     We have come to terms. 
 
Will Fly for Food
     Pilot with Family to Support, seeking employment within the People's Collective. Have 1936 'Bird Dog' Autogyro. Fully loaded and tuned. Veteran of the 1930 "Crop Dueling" battles; have flown with the Dusters off an on since.
     Write to, Ollie Hudson, Box 233, Emporia, PC.