190125-N-NI420-1062 PHUKET, Thailand (Jan. 25, 2019) Capt. Brian Mutty, Right, commanding officer of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) speaks with officers of the Royal Thai Navy aboard Essex in Phuket, Thailand. The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) team is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation to support regional stability, reassure partners and allies and maintain a presence postured to respond to any crisis ranging from humanitarian assistance to contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Molly DiServio/Released)