190427-N-DS193-0003 SOUTH CHINA SEA (April 27, 2019) The U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) transits the South China Sea, April 27, 2019. Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as U.S. 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 2nd Class Adam K. Thomas/Released)