200330-M-KL008-1015 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 30, 2020) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during flight operations. The purpose of flight operations is to ensure all equipment is operating correctly and gives pilots a chance to add to their flight hours. 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. Marine photo by Lance Cpl. Kolby Leger/Released)