25 JUNE 1979 — Sandinista insurgents like this one occupy slums ringing the Nicaraguan capital. Government planes shoot rockets and dump explosives on their positions, causing horrific civilian casualties. Those of us in the press corps who remain in Nicaragua after Bill Stewart’s execution and subsequent media evacuation witness the spread of the conflict, quite literally, to our doorsteps.
The image making and storytelling skills I acquired during this conflict are the foundation of my role today as backpack journalist. As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution, I’m posting scans of some of the original images I made for UPI during that war, and explaining their significance. I do this in recognition and gratitude to the country and people who have given me so much. Thank you.