200329-N-PI330-0013 GULF OF OMAN (March 29, 2020) Aviation Machinist�s Mate 2nd Class Frans Marken assigned to the �Guardians� of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 48 embarked aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), conducts maintenance on the tail rotor of an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter on March 29, 2020. Vella Gulf is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and the three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Waters/Released)