181019-N-GR847-2070 ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 19, 2018) Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Michael Pirtle observes landing craft utility 1680, attached to Assault Craft Unit 1, depart the well deck of the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) during a scheduled deployment with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). Rushmore is currently 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 to the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Reymundo A. Villegas III/Released)