190614-N-XN169-1497 GULF OF OMAN (June 14, 2019) Sailors apart of the visit, board, search and seizure team aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) prepare to conduct small boat operations. Mason 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 Lasheba James/Released)