COMBAT OUTPOST RANKEL, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Lance Cpl. Jose Contreras speaks to local children riding in the bed of a truck at a vehicle checkpoint here, July 26. Contreras, a native of San Antonio, is a team leader with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. Every Tuesday, Marines here partner with the local Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police to provide a safe and secure environment for the thousands who come to the Safar Bazaar.