200317-N-ZS023-1082 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 17, 2020) The amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) conducts a fuel transfer with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194) during a replenishment-at-sea. 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 defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vance Hand/Released)