170303-N-LI768-445 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (March 3, 2017) Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit depart an MV-22B Osprey assigned to the "Ridge Runners" of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The ship is deployed to 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)