In the late 1980's and early 1990's Playmates created a little-celebrated line of toy action figures called the Barnyard Commandos. The Barnyard Commandos were available in one of two competing groups - There were the "RAMS"(Rebel Army of Military Sheep) and the "PORKS"(Platoon of Rebel Killing Swine) - Similar to Mattell's version of toy action figures known as the Food Fighters, the Barnyard Commandos two contingencies didn't see eye to eye. These toys are based on the story of a group of animals that consumed radioactive material that was left on their farm by the military, subsequently morphing into ruthless, military killing machines of the highest intelligence. Or something.

Everyone who was a kid during this era likely has some pleasant memories of playing with their Barnyard Commandos. Their claim to fame was their vicious appearance, the most vicious to be found at that time, even though they couldn't be posed or bent as they were made only of hollow, soft plastic. Kids loved the images of grimacing faces, tattoos, and eye patches. What kid wouldn't love to have a sheep with a rocket launcher sitting on it's shoulder? It was great to have a toy that prompted kids to use their imagination and creative play skills, in fact, the Barnyard Commandos were too cool for moving parts! There was no need for batteries, computer technology or other electronics of today's toys as children would play war with their Barnyard Commandos for hours, some being Rams, other Pigs. This was an exhilarating time for kids' toys as play consisted of lots of creativity and imagination that you don't see in the toys of today.

A cartoon based on these toys hit the airwaves during this time, but the corny Saturday morning show didn't last long (4 episodes). If you went to Burger King during this time you might have come home with a Barnyard Commandos toy that was included in their Kid's Meals.

If you find yourself in a position to purchase any of these Barnyard Commandos toy action figures, you shouldn't pass it up, as they are quite rare thanks to the restricted amount that were produced. The accompanying Barnyard Commandos vehicles were produced during the second series of these toys, and locating these is a true find!

Series 1

R.A.M.S.

• Sergeant Woolly Pullover
• Commodore Fleece Cardigan
• Major Legger Mutton
• Pilot Fluff Pendleton

P.O.R.K.S.

• General Hamfat Lardo
• Private Side O'Bacon
• Sergeant Shoat N. Sweet
• Captain Tusker Chitlins

Series 2

R.A.M.S.

• Master Sargent Cornelius Cannonfodder
• Private Bull Bellwether
• Commander Missiles Muttonchop
• Lieutenant Sureshot Shearling

P.O.R.K.S.

• Corporal Hy Ondahog
• Staff Sergeant Blaster McBacon
• Major Piggyback Gunner
• Captain Hogg Wilde

Vehicles

• Bacon Bomber
• Pork Chopper
• Pork-A-Pult
• Ram Tank