Who is this Ice Cream Soldier, and why is he fighting Cobra and Nazis?

 I just read the Sgt. Rock graphic novel by Kubert and that “100 Bullets” guy whose name I can’t spell.
Anyway, this is the first time I read a Sgt. Rock story and one thing left me wondering.
There’s a character named “Ice Cream Soldier” in it. I also know that the G.I. Joe toy line had a character named Ice Cream Soldier too. The “joe” member was a guy with a flamethrower, so I don’t think they’re supposed to be the same person.
Anyway, what I’m wondering, is “Ice Cream Soldier” a common nickname for a person in the army or was the “joe” character made in tribute to the Sgt. Rock character?
Ice Cream Soldier’s listing at yojoe.com