171025-N-NG136-018 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 25, 2017) Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 3rd Class Samantha Jelonnek prepares to take off in an MH-60R Sea Hawk attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 70 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during 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 Seaman Zachary P. Wickline/Released)