Combat operations end in Afghanistan for US Marines, British troops

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan (WLS) -- A major milestone Sunday in Afghanistan, as combat operations in the Helmand province officially ended for American Marines and British troops.

Officials commemorated the handover during simultaneous ceremonies at Camp Leatherneck for the Marines and Camp Bastion for the British forces.

The conjoined bases made up the coalition headquarters for the region.

While some American combat troops will remain in Afghanistan through the end of the year and a smaller number beyond that, the closing of Camp Bastion signified the end of all British operations in the country.