LARRY HAMA

If one name is synonymous with the mythology of G.I. Joe, it’s Larry Hama. From too many file cards to count to the 300+ issue G.I. Joe: Real American Hero comic run that’s still going today, he’s written the origins and stories of so many of our favorite characters. As a writer, artist, actor and musician, Mr. Hama is a renaissance man and prolific creator. We’re pleased to welcome him back to Des Moines for another visit as .

RON RUDAT

 As the original designer of every G.I. Joe figure from 1982-1986, Ron Rudat remains one of the most influential creators in the history of the franchise.  Along with the characters, he also imagined many vehicles and illustrated the infamous COBRA logo. If you grew up loving G.I. Joe, you were partly raised by this imaginative artist. He continues to create to this day — and we’re pleased to have him as our guest once again for Assembly Required!

RON WAGNER

This renowned comic artist has built a career illustrating legendary work on G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero and many other classic Marvel and DC series. Ron Wagner is a graduate of The Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art and known for his dynamic character illustration.

PHIL HESTER

This comic book writer/artist and Iowa native has created works for DC, Marvel, Image and numerous independent publishers. Phil Hester’s unique talents are on full display in including the recent Beach Head issue of Skybound’s G.I. Joe Real American Hero Silent Missions mini-series.

JOE DECLASSIFIED

This not-for-profit organization is on a mission to explore the history of the franchise and broaden the understanding of all its fans. From early pencil sketches to prototypes, these action figure archaeologists always uncover interesting lore that sheds new light on the origins of our favorite toy line.

234th TIGERHAWKS

This premier G.I. Joe costume club boasts a small army of aficionados with more than 350 members across 40 states and nine countries. Their commitment to the creation of high-quality costumes and props might just convince you that your favorite plastic action figures have stepped off their card backs and come to life.

  • Skeletron

  • Midwest Vintage Toys

  • Marauder

  • The Toy Department

  • After Action Report

  • JMK Custom Works

  • B-Rock Viper Toys

  • Majestic Collectibles

  • Kolander Collectibles

  • Mark2Toys

  • What’s On Joe Mind

  • Hypnoshield

  • Grind House / World War Hell

  • International Hero’s

  • Callsign: Longbow

  • Ragin’ Spoon

  • AVAC’s Lab

  • 3D Joes/Operation: Recall

  • The Dealt Hand

  • Surplus 27

  • Chicken Fried Toys

  • G.I. Jason

  • Commander Cody Art

  • Pappy's Toyz

  • Yoho Joe's Workshop

  • Kickley

  • Solid Raven

  • Craft and Conquer

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