180912-N-AF263-0069 GULF OF ADEN (Sept. 12, 2018) Marines assigned to the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit carry a combat rubber raiding craft to the edge of the well deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) while conducting small boat operations during Theater Amphibious Combat Rehearsal (TACR) 18. Led by Naval Amphibious Force, Task Force 51/5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, TACR integrates U.S. Navy and Marine Corps assets to practice and rehearse a range of critical combat-related capabilities available to U.S. Central Command, both afloat and ashore, to promote stability and security in the region. U.S. 5th Fleet and coalition assets are participating in numerous simultaneous exercises as part of the greater Theater Counter Mine and Maritime Security Exercise to ensure maritime stability and security in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sabyn L. Marrs/Released)