Marines in Afghanistan battle the Taliban

(CNN) - U.S. Marines deployed in southern Afghanistan since the spring
have killed more than 400 insurgents, have eliminated insurgent fighting
positions and strongholds, and are making strides in stabilizing the violent
region, a commander said on Wednesday.

Col. Peter Petronzio, the commander of the 24th Marine Expeditionary
Unit, spoke to reporters about the Marines' fight against the Taliban in the
Helmand province region of Garmsir.

Helmand is an important front in the war against the Taliban. It is
considered the the world's largest opium poppy growing region, and that trade
has helped fund insurgent activities.