Hall, of Elyria, Ohio, was killed in an explosion while serving in Garmsir, Afghanistan.

CNN: In Ohio, signs of soldiers' sacrifice

Dale Cortman prepared to lead a large supply convoy across Garmsir District, which had long been a lawless region near the border with Pakistan.

NPR: Trip Illuminates Life on Bases Across Afghan Desert

Over the past few months, Americans have already taken on security responsibility for many other districts in Helmand, including Nawa, Garmsir, Marjah, Khanshin and Nawzad.

BBC: Afghans on UK handover to US in Sangin