Lee Travis was the Crimson Avenger, one of the first mystery men active shortly before and during World War II. He was a member of the Seven Soldiers of Victory and the All-Star Squadron, together with his sidekick, Wing. In private life, Travis was publisher and editor of the Globe-Leader, a newspaper devoted to progressive causes.
After years of heroics, Travis was diagnosed with an incurable, deadly disease. Seeing a freighter flashing SOS in the harbor, he leapt into action in costume. Saving a small boy on the way, the Crimson Avenger reached the ship, which was carrying some highly explosive volatile chemicals and was being hijacked by criminals. The ensuing battle caused a fire. Since he was dying soon anyway, Travis insisted that the captain and crew leave and then piloted the ship out into the harbor himself, saving the city from the explosion.