GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan - Lance Cpl. Edward Stevens provides security while waiting for a V-22 Osprey, his ride back to base, during Operation Black Dawn here, May 17. Stevens, a native of Sandy Creek, N.Y., is a designated marksman with 1st Squad, 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, which conducted security patrols and vehicle searches in the desert of Eastern Garmsir for 24-hours. During the operation, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment focused on pinpointing trouble areas and narcotic smuggling lanes in Garmsir. The battalion supports Regimental Combat Team 1, under 2nd Marine Division (Forward), the Marine ground combat element in Helmand province. The mission of the division is to partner with Afghan National Security Forces and the Afghan government to conduct counterinsurgency operations to secure the Afghan people, defeat insurgent forces, and enable ANSF to assume security responsibilities in the region. Ultimately, the partnered forces promote the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance.