Does it Make a Difference

I have been asked alot does there seem to be any progress here..if all this sacrifice doing anything. Ultimately I have to think that it is, for so much sacrifice both by the Brits and the US, especially the 3/5 marines.
This link is of one such story and validates to some extent the sacrifice that goes on here.
The 3/5 marines rip out of here soon back home, and hopefully some of their efforts remain.
Pictures below are from the article (see URL below)

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/mar/09/pendleton-marines-help-afghan-governor-meet-his-pe/