200416-N-ZS023-1008 SOUTH CHINA SEA (April 16, 2020) Chief Aviation Boatswain�s Mate (Handling) Akiel Mayers, from Ypsilanti, Michigan, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), signals an F-35B Lightning II assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced) to take off from the flight deck. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU, 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)