200316-N-QD718-1251 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 16, 2020) A U.S. Navy Mark VI patrol boat is underway in the Philippine Sea during amphibious operations with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). Germantown, part 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 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)