CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Afghanistan -- Gen. John Allen, the commanding general of International Security Assistance Force made his first command visit to Marjah, Aug. 4, to view its progress and meet its leaders.

With temperatures reaching 130 degrees and in the midst of Ramadan, Allen patrolled from Forward Operating Base Marjah to the surrounding areas of the district center with the Marines of Regimental Combat Team 1. Along the way, he met with elders and district officials to include the governor and the chief of police.

Allen highlighted the successes in Marjah and discussed future plans of Afghanistan with Governor Abdul Mutalab as the governor gave his input and praised the work of the Marines.

Allen concluded his trip by noting the progress made the past year in the district and reemphasized the fact that all coalition forces are assisting with the efforts in Afghanistan.

The mission of ISAF is to partner with Afghan National Security Forces and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to conduct counterinsurgency operations to secure the Afghan people, defeat insurgent forces and enable ANSF assumption of security responsibilities in the nation.

Regimental Combat Team 1 is currently assigned to 2nd Marine Division (Forward), which heads Task Force Leatherneck. The task force serves as the ground combat element of Regional Command (Southwest) and works in partnership with the Afghan National Security Force and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to conduct counterinsurgency operations. The unit is dedicated to securing the Afghan people, defeating insurgent forces, and enabling ANSF assumption of security responsibilities within its area of operations in order to support the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance.