190125-N-WI365-1059 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 25, 2019) Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) prepare to launch Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) from the stern gate in combat rubber raiding crafts (CRRC). Ashland, part of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 31st MEU, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Markus Castaneda/Released)