Sgt. Zap
– Stars and Stripes Forever

Filecard Info

Code Name: Sgt. Zap

Bazooka Soldier

File Name: Melendez, Rafael J.

SN: RA 633-39-0744

Primary Military Speciality: Combat Engineer

Secondary Military Speciality: Infantry

Birthplace: New York City, NY

Grade: E-7 (Staff Sergeant)

Motto: “I open tanks like they were sardine cans.”

Sgt. Zap was chosen among the first to join the G.I. Joe team in its early deys. His specialty was in armor-piercing and anti-tank weapon systems. As the team expanded, he moved more towards demolitions. It became his job to teach the new recruits their practical factors to qualify for ranks. It’s amazing to watch him work with highexplosives devices and remain composed. His professional attitude gained him a great reputation as an instructor. When the call went out to re-organize the original G.I. Joe team members, he jumped at the chance. Being somewhat old-fashioned, he returned using his favorite hand-held bazooka, not as high-tech as some of the weapons he’s used but definitely reliable.

After the Team’s flrst encounter with Cobra Forces, they found a suitable location and in the tradition of the men and women who served their country before them, raised the flag in their honor, and declared – STARS and STRIPES FOREVER!

From General Hawk´s Files: “Here’s a guy that not only likes blowing things up, we pay him to do it. Sgt. Zap maintains his cool at all times. Setting up explosive devices is nerve racking, but he handles it and keeps coming back for more. A true professional, and well-liked both for his abilities and his courage. My advice is to keep your helmet on when he’s around, something will be exploding nearby.”