171130-N-IO414-040 SASEBO, Japan (Nov. 30, 2017) Sailors attach a towing line from a tug boat to the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Chief (MCM 14). Chief is returning to Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo after completing the annual bilateral mine countermeasures (MCM) exercise 3JA with the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force that increased proficiency and interoperability in MCM operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Crouch/Released)