200129-N-MB038-1054 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 29, 2020) Vice Adm. Bill Merz, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, tours the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit team, is operating 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 2nd Class Christopher Marshall/Released)