170811-N-AC254-096 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 11, 2017) Sailors assigned to the air department aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) taxi a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 (Reinforced) on the ship’s flight deck. America, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU), is operating in the Indo-Asia Pacific region to strengthen partnerships and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexander A. Ventura II/Released)