190815-N-EZ002-2358 GULF OF ADEN (Aug. 15, 2019) A landing craft utility assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 approaches the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49). Harpers Ferry is part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Keypher Strombeck/Released)