This strip seems to have been inspired by Buck Rogers. He even looks like Buck sometimes. But, that's okay.
Say! Just noticed! Ace looks like Buck because the artist was one who did the Buck Rogers strip.
Thought I knew most everything about newspaper strips and comics (Started to save comics around 1939 or 1940, when I was about 5 or 6. Sold them all in 1960-one of many mistakes I've made in life) until I discovered Comic Book Plus. Many thanks to all you wonderful folks for making this possible.
Link to the book:
Tops Comics #2000 Pt 2a - Ace Kelly