171022-N-NC040-076 NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 22, 2017) A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) leaves the well deck aboard the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43). The ship is underway in support of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 (BA17). Improving Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Allied and partner nations is a necessary investment in the current and future readiness of our forces. BA17 takes place Oct. 18-30 2017, ashore along the eastern seaboard. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd class Brian C. Sipe/Released)