180914-N-XK398-1279 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 14, 2018) Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class John Strand from Warner Robins, Ga., signals from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) to the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) during a replenishment-at-sea. Ashland, part of the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), with embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Mortensen/Released)