200202-N-RU810-1014 PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 2, 2020) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Bendron Averett, from Beaumont, Texas, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), signals an AH-1Z Viper helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) on the ship’s flight deck. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU 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 defense peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vincent E. Zline/Released)