190508-N-AD347-1105 SOUTH CHINA SEA, (May 8, 2019) Sailors pose for a photo on the weather decks of the Avenger-class mine counter measures ships USS Pioneer (MCM 9) and USS Patriot (MCM 7) while underway in the South China Sea. Both Pioneer and Patriot, part of Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7, are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response platform for contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Alexander Fairbanks/Released)