"Venom: Space Knight" may take place in the cosmic realm of the Marvel Universe, but it's dealing with some very real-world issues in the arc starting with this week's new issue, #3. Series writer Robbie Thompson consulted with the Wounded Warrior Project for the story, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to wounded military veterans.

Marvel's current Venom, Flash Thompson, lost his legs in the Iraq war as part of a 2009 "Amazing Spider-Man" story, which led to the character becoming Venom two years later. The arc will see Flash "breaking free from the alien suit that provides him with not only immense power, but the ability to walk, despite the loss of his legs during the war in Iraq," as stated by a Marvel press release.

"Working with Wounded Warrior Project has been an invaluable part of the process of writing 'Venom: Space Knight,'" Robbie Thompson said in statement. "[Wounded Warrior Project spokesperson] Dan Nevins' insight was inspiring, generous and deeply moving, allowing us to create a more realistic character and story for the book. I'm forever grateful for their ongoing help and guidance."

Here's a preview of "Venom: Space Knight" #3, written by Thompson and illustrated by Ariel Olivetti:

"Marvel's team has put so much time and consideration into the development of the Flash Thompson character as he faces this physical and emotional battle that many combat veterans have faced and are facing right now," Nevins said. "While the story itself is clearly sci-fi/fantasy, this storyline will bring awareness to the very real struggle of the obvious and not-so-obvious challenges in having lost limbs in combat, and to ultimately showcase the fortitude and resilience of the warriors Flash Thompson represents."

"Venom: Space Knight" #3 is on sale tomorrow, Jan. 27.