161206-N-GB595-485 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Dec. 6, 2016) A Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC), launched from the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), carries U.S. Marines and equipment assigned to 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to shore during Exercise Alligator Dagger. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th MEU are participating in Alligator Dagger to increase proficiency and enable the force to train for amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Mathew J. Diendorf)