Happy Birthday: Charles McNider
Charles McNider was a brilliant doctor and surgeon who believed in doing the right thing. He was removing a bullet from a mob witness one night when mobsters threw a grenade into the room, killing the witness and blinding McNider.
McNider was recovering at home a short while later when an owl crashed through his window. Surprised, he tore the bandages from his eyes and then realized that he could see perfectly—but only in complete darkness. Developing blackout bombs and a visor to let him see in light as well, McNider donned a costume to become the original Dr. Mid-Nite.
He was part of the Justice Society of America and the All-Star Squadron before becoming the medic for Infinity, Inc. and a mentor for several promising young doctors, including both Beth Chapel (Dr. Midnight) and Pieter Cross (the second and current Dr. Mid-Nite). McNider died heroically, battling Extant during Zero Hour.