200510-N-PI330-0110 GULF OF ADEN (May 10, 2020) Capt. Andrew Fitzpatrick, the commanding officer of guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), observes surface contacts from the bridge May 10, 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)