170823-N-WM647-0177 ARABIAN GULF (Aug. 23, 2017) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the “Death Rattlers” of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 323 prepares to take off from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. While in the region, the ship and its carrier strike group are conducting maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners, preserve freedom of navigation and maintain the free flow of commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elesia K. Patten/Released)