181221-N-GK137-0056 STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Dec. 21, 2018) Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Vallerie Kim, from Peovia, Illinois, paints a plane fitting in the hangar bay aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during a transit of the Strait of Hormuz, Dec. 21, 2018. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group is 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 Seaman Apprentice Jordan Ripley/Released)