The Secret Origin of... THE SHINING KNIGHT

Though there were other comics series with similar names before and after, the longest-running Secret Origins comic book was published by DC Comics from April 1986 to August 1990.  It included 50 regular issues, three annuals, and one special edition.  This series of blog posts focuses on the stories that would have, should have, or otherwise follow the spirit of that series.      

The initial format of Secret Origins was to devote the odd-numbered issues to heroes from the Golden Age and the even-numbered issues to more recent heroes.  Beginning with Secret Origins #6 (cover dated September 1986), each issue featured one Golden Age origin and one "Modern" origin."  A number of the final issues of All-Star Squadron, which was slated to be retooled as The Young All-Stars, also featured origins of the Golden Age heroes.  Among them was the origin of All-Star Squadron and Seven Soldiers of Victory member The Shining Knight.  The premise within the on-going storyline of the series was that the Squadron members were telling their stories to the Tarantula for a book he would write once World War II concluded.  

The Secret Origin of... THE SHINING KNIGHT

"The Origin of The Shining Knight" from All-Star Squadron #62 (October 1986) by Roy Thomas and Tony DeZuniga

Synopsis from The All-Star Companion Vol. 2: When Camelot is threatened by the ogre Blunderbore, Sir Justin volunteers to rid the kingdom of this menace.  Merlin enchants his sword and armor and gives his horse wings.  The Shining Knight slays the monster but winds up frozen alive in a glacier.  He is found and revived in 1941 by museum curator Dr. Moresby.  The modern world meets the Knight and Winged Victory when they prevent thieves from looting the museum.    

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