In pictures: On the frontline with UAE forces

A moment of rest and regrouping while commanders meet to plan the next move. The spot overlooks the poppy fields. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The Taliban have just opened fire, with a burst of kalashnikov over our heads. Each man reacts, moving towards whatever sparse cover the ground offers. Afghan commandos are already returning fire. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA) return fire after an initial incoming volley from the Taliban. Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The first IED blast knocks down two Americans and one Afghan Commando. Dust, stones, smoke and grit are hurled into the air. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The Green Beret Medic dives for the casualty and starts the treatment to save his life. The two injured Americans will have to wait. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

An Afghan interpreter, gasps in pain, his wounds are bad but not dangerous, he too will have to wait. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The second IED explodes beside the casualties from the first. The same victims are hit, as well as the medic, now himself injured in the blast. Two other soldiers, not in the frame, are hit by flying debris. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The Green Beret Medic will soon have his main priority casualty under control and will be turning his unflagging energy on the other casualties. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

The American Captain, in pain and shock still keeps control, trying to bring assistance for his men. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

A CH47 "Casevac" helicopter with surgical team onboard lands to evacuate the wounded. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com

A CH47 "Casevac" helicopter with surgical team onboard lands to evacuate the wounded. UAE Special Forces on patrol in Afghanistan with American Special Forces (Green Berets) and Afghan Commandos (ANA). Copyright Alex Gardiner / alex@whowearswins.com