200129-N-DE082-144 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 29, 2020) Cmdr. Benjamin Nehrke, the executive officer of the U.S. 7th Fleet Flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), observes operations in the pilot house of Blue Ridge as the ship maneuvers with ships assigned to the America Expeditionary Strike Group. Blue Ridge is operating with the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit team in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sarah Eaton/Released)