MARINES IN AFGHANISTAN — U.S. Marines, with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, prepare for CH-47 (Chinook) helicopter insertion to their forward position on the Afghanistan/Pakistan border, Sept. 7, 2004. The battalion is currently conducting vehicle check points and village assessments while maintaining an offensive presence throughout the region in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Marine Corps. photo by Lance Cpl. Justin M. Mason