An AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter takes off from the flight deck of Camp Bastion, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Jan. 12. The Marine Light/Attack Helicopter Squadron 269, a section of the air combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force - Afghanistan, provides fire support, security and visual reconnaissance support to 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, the ground combat element of SPMAGTF-A and other alliance forces. Marine aviation is a critical part of reinforcing success and sustaining the momentum of the ongoing progress by the alliance in Afghanistan.