As Marines return, big numbers are good, and a zero is very good

After deployment to volatile Helmand province in Afghanistan, 230 Marines and sailors of Combat Logistics Regiment 15 are home at Camp Pendleton.

"I couldn't be more proud of the work our Marines and sailors did," said Col. Stephen D. Sklenka, the commanding officer.

By the numbers, the deployment was judged successful:

+ 535 combat logistics patrols planned and coordinated, covering 60,345 miles over roads where Taliban fighters often bury roadside bombs.

+ 1,223,703 gallons of bulk fuel delivered.

+ 152 helicopter missions supported.

+ Nine major base transfers or closures accomplished.

There also another number that was of particular importance to the family members who waited in the shivering cold early Thursday for the regiment to return.

+ Zero, the number of Marines or sailors killed in combat.

ALSO:

Outside spending pours into L.A. school board race

Ex-cop manhunt: Snowstorm may hamper Big Bear search

Manhunt: FBI searches Las Vegas home of fugitive ex-officer

--Tony Perry in San Diego

Photo: Navy corpsman Matthew Foothill and his wife at the homecoming of Combat Logistics Regiment 15 to Camp Pendleton. Credit: Marine Cpl. Laura Gauna.