171201-N-MJ135-2129 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 1, 2017) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Stingers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 prepares to take off from the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) on its first day of combat operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Theodore Roosevelt and its carrier strike group are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Spencer Roberts/Released)