200421-N-SH168-1031 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 21, 2020) An amphibious assault vehicle (AAV), attached to 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepares to enter the well deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is underway in the eastern Pacific Ocean conducting routine maritime operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Luke McGovern/Released)