NEAR KARMAH, Iraq (August 19, 2007) – Without question, the desert can be a barren, unforgiving place.

the longing for “green” among Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines personnel has been pacified with the chance growth of a tiny green plant.

The plant was noticed by Marines Aug. 14, following a mortar attack on the base. In the confusing aftermath and struggle to get protective gear on, a voice was heard the chaos: “Hey, is that a plant?”

“Whoa, there’s a plant growing over there!”

A small green stalk with two little leaves on top, the plant has yet to be identified

Perhaps a sunflower or tobacco plant, as the ground of some living areas are littered with. Maybe even a kool-aid plant, because it sprouted directly beneath a box of powdered drink mix. More likely, however, it is a watermelon vine, planted by a Marine discarding the seed while enjoying the fruit (which locals here sell at marketplaces).

“That thing just gives me hope!” exclaimed one Marine.

I just miss green.”