An interpreter and Afghan Border Police Pvt. Ghul Faruq, a medic with 2nd Tolai, 2nd Kandak, Helmand ABP, speak with a local boy while fellow ABP search a compound during a partnered security patrol with U.S. Marines from Combined Anti-Armor Team 2, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, here, Jan. 30. In southern Garmsir district, an area with a history of tribal conflict, the growing ABP force has deepened its roots and established governance through the mentorship of the 3/3 Weapons Co. Marines. The ABP is younger and significantly smaller than the Afghan National Army and police forces, but its mission is vital as Afghan forces prepare to assume lead security responsibility in Garmsir. “If the ABP didn’t exist, there would be holes all along Afghanistan’s southern border,” said Capt. Jason Armas, 33, the commanding officer of Weapons Co., 3/3, and a native of Rye, N.Y.