Sunday, March 11, 2018

Introducing Joan Jameson



Joan Jameson was introduced to us in the pages of Captain Marvel Adventures #67 (October 4, 1946) in the story "Captain Marvel Gets a Secretary."  Joan Jameson became the secretary for both Billy Batson and Captain Marvel in this comic!

We learn that Joan graduated Business College and excitedly and determinedly goes out looking for work.  Joan's work ethic makes her determined to find a good job and work hard.  Since Captain Marvel is her hero, she decides to look for a job at WHIZ where both Cap and Billy Batson have an office.



Joan's job opportunity seems pretty slim when Billy advises her that he and Captain Marvel have no need for a secretary.  But Joan is undaunted and strikes a bargain with Billy - let her work as secretary for one day to prove herself!  Joan soon proves herself to both Billy and Captain Marvel who marvels at Joan's professional conduct and efficiency.


By the end of the story Captain Marvel tells Joan, "Believe it or not, you convinced both Billy and me that we need a secretary!  Report to work tomorrow morning and every morning after that!"  For Billy's part, he tells the readers, "Yes, folks!  Joan Jameson is our permanent secretary now!  Captain Marvel and I think she's swell!"


Not only did Joan become Billy and Captain Marvel's secretary, she also accidentally witnessed Billy's transformation into Captain Marvel!  She knows Billy's secret but she also kept his secret - not telling anyone!


Another interesting fact is that Joan was one of the characters that was caught up in Sivana's Suspendium trap that put Captain Marvel into suspended animation for over 20 years!  (You can read about that here!)  She went on to become a character in the 1970's Shazam! comic series.

I am really impressed with Joan Jameson's character as she is a great role model for both men and women.  She worked hard to put herself through college, she had the grit and determination to get a good job, and she impresses even a super hero with her hard work!  Though she's a minor character in Cap's comics, she has a ton of good character traits that make her a true role model!