PATROL BASE SHARK, Helmand province, Islamic Republic

PATROL BASE SHARK, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – San Diego native Lance Cpl. Ricardo Gonzalez greets an Afghan child during a foot patrol outside an observation post. The 23-year-old is a vehicle commander for one of the Combined Anti-Armor Teams with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment. The unit is committed to building a good rapport with the local populous after taking over for 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.