Attack of the killer grasshopper?

4
A grasshopper prowls at Camp Dwyer, Afghanistan.

A grasshopper prowls at Camp Dwyer, Afghanistan. // Dan Lamothe / Staff

PATROL BASE YAZZIE, Afghanistan — So, perhaps my friend in the photograph got your attention.

I took this photo while wandering at Camp Dwyer last week, but really, it could have been taken anywhere I’ve been in Helmand province. The insects are large here, larger than just about anything I’ve seen in my 28 years of life.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re talking bees, spiders or mosquitoes, the creepy crawlies here all look like they’ve been taking steroids. The mosquitoes, in particular, wowed me, since they flock to my computer screen late at night.

Anyway, another day. After four months downrange and several cancellations, Yazzie finally received a visit today from the PX store, meaning Marines can stock up on up to $200 in supplies, magazines, candy and other items. Pandemonium? Well, kinda. The first sergeant has things under control.

Share.

About Author

I'm a senior writer with Marine Corps Times, covering ground warfare, manpower, weapons acquisition and other beats. I embedded in Afghanistan in spring 2010, and plan to return at least once in 2011.

4 Comments

  1. No their not on steriods they are on opium! LOL! They are in the poppy fields getting what they can!!!!!! Thanks for the photo and God Bless you Dan! Semper Fi!

  2. Keep up the good work!! Would love word pictures describing weather, conditions, etc. Anything to give us a flavor of the daily life/routine our Marines are experiencing. Thank you again!

Reply To cindy Cancel Reply

css.php