The city of Marja, for which many American, Canadian, British, French, and Afghan troops have bled to seize from the Taliban's iron fist, is now officially led by the government of Afghanistan. In a ceremony today, hundreds of citizens came together to watch the flag-raising ceremony, which you can watch raw footage of below.A Fox News article quotes Brig. Gen. Larry Nicholson, who is leading the U.S. Marine push in Helmand province.
"It's a very historical day, a new beginning," Nicholson, the commander of the U.S. Marines in southern Afghanistan, told the crowd as U.S. snipers stationed on the roofs of surrounding buildings watched over.
In what had characteristics of a victory celebration, Nicholson said of the assembly: "I am so moved by this, so very thrilled by the turnout ... They are voting with their eyes, and they believe there is a fresh start for Marja under the government of Afghanistan."
Of course, the struggle in Helmand province is far from over, and many brave young men and women continue to sacrifice to rid the region of the Taliban, which sheltered Osama bin Laden and his top terrorist lieutenants before and after the 9/11 attacks. The danger remains high for troops and civilians. But for the people of Afghanistan, today's events mark progress, which is something we can all salute our military for helping bring about.
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