170831-N-UM082-0020 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Aug. 31, 2017) Sailors assigned to Beach Master Unit (BMU) 2, and Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, embarked aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), prepare to conduct a stern gate marriage with a landing craft Utility and the ship's well deck. The ship and its ready group are deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations 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 Raymond Minami/Released)