While combat operations officially ended in Afghanistan a few months ago, Marines from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, are preparing to head back to the nation, according to a press release.
The release, issued by the Marine Corps, explained that the troops will be responsible for "security operations" in the country, which is still engulfed in conflict. The servicemembers have already undergone thorough training exercises to prepare for the deployment. They practiced reaction strategies for a variety of insurgency scenarios, such as improvised explosive devices and discovering the root of enemy fire after an attack. Soldiers were also taught how to appropriately interact with local village elders, unload from CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopters and what to do in the event of snipers.
Military Times reported that it is not completely clear what role the Marines will be playing in Afghanistan, but they will most likely be supporting liaison troops that remain there. It also has not been released when the troops will be deploying, but officials explained that before they arrive they will stop in Germany for more training, this time alongside Georgian soldiers.