The city of Marjah in Afghanistan's central Helmand Province was once an enemy stronghold. Taliban fighters and narcotics traffickers controlled of the city and ruled its people through fear.  It was not just a safe haven for the insurgency, it was an operational support zone for insurgent attacks throughout the province.

Now, after more than a year of tough fighting, our counter-insurgency efforts have begun to pay dividends and, partnering with Afghan security forces, the Taliban's tactical momentum has been reversed.  The result has been the gradual development of local governance, economic progress in the growing security bubbles, and a new schoolhouse.

House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and the congressional delegation visited Marjah on Wednesday. The delegation toured the new school and delivered school supplies to hundreds of young boys and girls.  In a short video taped at the school, Speaker Boehner talked about Afghanistan and why its important to the safety and security of the American people.

The children at the school sported grins that stretched from ear to ear.  While there is still much more to accomplish in Afghanistan, the improved security situation and the new school in Marjah demonstrates that tangible progress is being made.  Here are some photos of the delegation handing out school supplies to the young children in Marjah: