170223-N-LI768-427 GULF OF ADEN (Feb. 23, 2017) Cmdr. Karlwin Matthews, Senior Medical Officer aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), delivers remarks during the African American and Black History Month celebration in the ship’s hangar bay. Makin Island is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed to reassure allies and partners, and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Devin M. Langer/Released)