170909-M-UA621-198 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 9, 2017) Low altitude air defense (LAAD) gunners launch a simulated missile from the Stinger launch simulator on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) during short range air defense engagements practice, Sept. 9, 2017. The mock missile simulates the FIM-92 Stinger missile used to defend the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s (MEU) forward positions from air attack. LAAD detachment is attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265, a part of the Aviation Combat element of the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU partners with the Navy's Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 to form the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group, providing a cohesive blue-green team capable of accomplishing a variety of missions across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Breanna L. Weisenberger/Released)