200130-N-QD718-1230 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 30, 2020) Japan Ground Self-Defense Force soldiers conduct combat rubber raiding craft rehearsal off the stern gate of the well deck aboard the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). Germantown, part of 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 serves as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toni Burton/Released)