180823-N-AF263-0007 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 23, 2018) Aerographer’s Mate 3rd Class Russel Kohlman uses an anemometer to measure the wind speed and direction aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a scheduled deployment of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The Essex ARG/13th MEU is a capable and lethal Navy-Marine Corps team deployed to the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to support regional stability, reassure partners and allies and maintain a presence postured to respond to any crisis ranging from humanitarian assistance to contingency operations (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sabyn L. Marrs/Released)