U.S. Marines take cover from a controlled detonation of explosives during a combat operation in the abandoned village of Now Zad, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, April 3. The residents of Now Zad were forced to abandon their homes nearly three years ago out of fear for their lives due to the strong presence of insurgents. By conducting combat operations here, Marines are bringing Now Zad closer to the reintroduction of Afghan-led governance. The Marines of Company L, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Afghanistan, have served in Now Zad since November 2008. SPMAGTF-A is committed to assisting the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan with providing security to the Afghan people.