180926-N-XK398-1085 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 26, 2018) Seaman Fabian Sepulveda Ibarra inspects the stern gate before conducting well deck operations aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48). Ashland, part of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, 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)