about us
Rooted in a lifelong passion for comics that began in the 1960s, Airborne Comics & Collectibles was founded by a U.S. Airborne veteran with decades of collecting and selling experience. After launching a successful eBay store in 2004, he’s now bringing that deep knowledge and enthusiasm to a brick-and-mortar location—alongside the support and creativity of his incredible wife, who shares in the vision and spirit of the shop. Together, they’ve created more than a store—it’s a space designed to ignite excitement, spark nostalgia, and build a welcoming community for collectors, fans, and families alike.
our history
The 1960’s
The Beginning
I started collecting comic books in the early 1960’s. I had a paper route and used my earnings to buy comic books. There were no comic book stores back then, so I bought them primarily from two neighborhood drug stores. Both had extensive magazine racks. I picked up the books and read them with my brothers. Rather than throwing them out, I saved them. I had several friends who read comics and we would get together and read each other’s books.
The 1970’s
The Transition
I graduated from high school in 1969 and started college. I continued with my interest in comics but did not have the same amount of time to dedicate to them. I got married to my lovely wife Debbie in 1972 and enlisted in the U.S. Army later that year. An interesting sidenote: while stationed at Ft. Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis in 1973, I struck up a friendship with Bob Layton. Bob ran a comic book business and was trying to break into the business as an artist. Interesting time. I continued with my military career, becoming an officer in 1974. I returned to Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN, then was assigned to Homestead Air Force Base, FL. I next went to Ft. Benning, GA and then was assigned to the Second Infantry Division in South Korea. I went back to Ft. Benning and closed out the 1970’s at Ft. Bragg, NC with the 82d Airborne Division
1980’s & 1990’s
Career Continued
I had several assignments around the world including Germany, the Sinai Peninsula, the Pentagon, another assignment to the 82d Airborne Division, and closed out the 80’s while participating in Operation Desert Shield/Storm. I kept my interest in comics throughout, dedicating time to the hobby when I could. I transported my collection wherever I went.
1990’s to Present
Soldier to Civilian
My final active duty assignment was at Selfridge Air Force Base in Michigan from which I retired in 1994. While still on active duty, I opened up Airborne Comics and Collectibles in 1992 in Mt. Clemens, MI in the Cherry Street Mall. I closed the store in 1994 but kept the business operational by opening up an Ebay store and running and attending comic book shows throughout southeastern Michigan. I decided to open up another brick and mortar store. Thus, Airborne Comics and Collectibles re-opened in Mt. Mt. Clemens, MI in April 2025.
Stop In & Shop
So next time you’re walking through downtown—or even if you need to make a special trip—be sure to stop in and explore everything we have to offer. From comics and graphic novels to movie memorabilia and superhero collectibles, there’s something here for every fan.