170911-N-WH681-026 CARIBBEAN SEA (Sept. 11, 2017) A landing craft utility prepares to depart the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) to deliver equipment and supplies to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Kearsarge and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) are 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 Kaitlyn E. Eads/Released)