180904-N-YJ378-0020 GULF OF ADEN (Sept. 4, 2018) The Whidbey Island-class amphibious landing dock ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) transits alongside the replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203), during a replenishment-at-sea, while on a scheduled deployment with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The ARG/MEU is forward-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 2nd Class Brandon Williams-Church/Released)