190531-N-DS741-0599 ARABIAN SEA (May 31, 2019) Sailors assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) prepare to break down pallets during a vertical replenishment with the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14). Leyte Gulf is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet areas of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary Pearson/Released)