As some 15,000 Nato and Afghan troops take on the Taliban in an offensive in Helmand province, these US Marines entered the key town of Marjah.
The soldiers, backed by helicopters and aircraft, swept into the districts of Marjah and Nad Ali in Helmand province to try to restore government control.
Nato commanders have so far expressed satisfaction with Operation Moshtarak but stress it is still early in the offensive.
Nato soldiers escort Afghan officials into Nad Ali. The quick restoration of government control and services is a key objective.
US soldiers near Marjah enjoy some down time by pretending to fish, using a cardboard alternative, in a canal.
The operation began before dawn and after civilians had been warned well in advance.
The warnings allowed these civilians to leave Marjah ahead of the fighting.
A US soldier gives medical treatment to an Afghan in the Badula Qulp area, west of Lashkar Gah in Helmand province, during an operation linked to Moshtarak.
The 1st Battalion the Royal Welsh gear up to board helicopters for the initial push.
Earlier, Colonel Shirin Shah of the Afghan National Civil Order Police (right) addressed Isaf troops ahead of Operation Moshtarak, with British Brigadier James Cowan, Commander 11 Light Brigade (2nd left).
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