Coalition Special Operations Forces pararescuemen lower a stretcher during a medical evacuation in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, April 13, 2012. Afghan National Army commandos and Coalition SOF, the first to visit that area in more than two years, defeated enemy forces threatening to overrun a village. Commando-led missions provide national security by encouraging local villagers to look to government forces for support rather than insurgents. (U.S. Navy photo/Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clay Weis)