200508-N-FA444-1184 PHILIPPINE SEA (May 8, 2020) Vice Adm. Bill Merz, from San Diego, observes as Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Logan Q. Craine, from Lexington, Kentucky, fires a .50-caliber machine gun and Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Jonathon J. Nava, from Fontana, California, spots for targets during a live-fire training exercise on the flight deck of U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). Live-fire training exercises are opportunities for Sailors to train, practice and qualify on various weapons platforms. Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as 7th Fleet command ship, actively works to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon L. Harris/Released)