U.S. Marines wait to leave a temporary patrol base during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 5, 2009. The Marines are assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marines conduct a short security halt during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 5, 2009.

U.S. Marines hold a compound overnight during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 4, 2009.

U.S. Marines patrol through a field during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Matthew Martin uses his radio during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. Martin is commander of Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Pettit, left, and Cpl. Matthew Miller fire their weapons during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009.

U.S. Marines maintain security in a field during an operation in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 2, 2009.

A U.S. Marine loads his M-4 service rifle before leaving Patrol Base Hasaan Abad in Helmand province, Afghanistan, July 1, 2009.