170911-N-KW492-277 ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands (Sept. 11, 2017) An excavator carrying military field rations, known as MRE or meals, ready to eat, disembarks a landing craft utility attached to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is assisting with relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Irma to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryre Arciaga/Released)