The Thing # 7 VF/NM 1984

The Thing # 7, published by Marvel Comics in January 1984 (with a cover date of March 1984), is titled "The Thing Goes South!" and focuses on a solo mission Ben Grimm takes on a naval base. 

The story takes place while the Fantastic Four are busy with other matters, leaving Ben Grimm feeling somewhat left out and in need of an adventure. 

• A "Vacation" with a Purpose: Ben receives a call for help from his old friend, General "Thunderbolt" Ross (who is not in Hulk mode during this story). Ross needs the Thing's help to deal with a situation at a naval base in the Southern United States.
• The Threat: The base is experiencing a series of strange occurrences, including a large, mysterious sea creature and a potential spy operation involving a new type of submarine.
• The Mission: Ben heads down south and investigates the base. He encounters military personnel and dives into the ocean to confront the aquatic threat, utilizing his strength and resilience to manage the underwater chaos.
• The Villain: The main antagonist is revealed to be the Serpent Squad, a group of snake-themed villains. The issue ends with Ben battling them underwater, setting up a continuing conflict in the next issue. 
• Writer: John Byrne
• Penciler: Ron Wilson
• Inker: Joe Sinnott
• Publisher: Marvel Comics