A U.S. Marine takes advantage of nice weather to air out his feet. Few soldiers have been able to shower since crossing the border between Kuwait and Iraq almost two weeks ago. (Rick Loomis / LAT)
An Iraqi youth herds sheep across a road being used by U.S. forces along the Tigris River. (Rick Loomis / LAT)
A light armored vehicle, part of the eastern assault groups of coalition forces along the Tigris River, makes its way along a road where the U.S. has attacked Iraqi postions with mortars, artillery and bombs over the last day. (Rick Loomis / LAT)
A medical Blackhawk helicopter lifts off from a road south of Al Kut, along the Tigris River where U.S. Marines have been operating. (Rick Loomis / LAT)
Sgt. Robin Bliss, 25, of Mora, Minn., catches a shave during a break in the action in Iraq on Wednesday. (Rick Loomis / LAT)
