190902-N-JN784-1006 SATTAHIP, Thailand (Sept. 2, 2019) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, deputy commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, speaks to the press after the opening ceremony for the ASEAN-U.S. Maritime Exercise (AUMX) at Sattahip Naval Base. The first AUMX, co-led by the U.S. and Royal Thai navies, includes maritime forces from the U.S. and all 10 ASEAN member states. AUMX promotes shared commitments to maritime partnerships, security and stability in Southeast Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Alexandra Seeley/Released)