FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — Marines assigned to Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, depart a vehicle checkpoint and patrol back to Forward Operating Base Geronimo May 30. The Marines are a part of the H&S guard force, a group of mostly non-infantrymen who perform infantry duties in the H&S battle space. The patrol was the first the Marines had completed on their own without being accompanied by a platoon sergeant or commander. “They’re doing really well, a lot better than I expected,” Cpl. Eric Ramirez, squad leader, said. “Out on patrol they’ve been building their confidence. They’re learning a lot and are motivated.” (Official Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mark Fayloga)