190305-N-IO414-1030 SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 5, 2019) Sailors aboard the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Chief (MCM 14) prepare to render honors to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) while transiting the South China Sea. Chief, part of Mine Countermeasure Squadron 7, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response platform for contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Crouch/Released)