Only two such Specials were ever published. Popeye Special #1: Borned to the Sea: The first book showcases Popeye's birth, the departure of his parents to remote parts of the world, his lying about his age in order to join the U. S. Navy (wherein he meets fellow sailors Wimpy and Brutus, developing a rivalry with the latter) and, while stationed in Japan, the start of his prizefighting career and his earning the Dragging Lady's enmity.