171019-N-NC040-124 NORFOLK (Oct. 19 2017) The amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) boards on a landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) into its well deck. Gunston Hall is underway in support of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 (#BA17). Improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, NATO, Allied and partner nations is a necessary investment in the current and future readiness of our forces. BA17 will take place Oct. 18-30 2017, ashore along the eastern seaboard. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd class Brian C. Sipe/Released)