GULF OF ADEN (Dec. 17, 2016) U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jonathan Brusherd a Reconnaissance Corpsmen with the Maritime Raid Force (MRF), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares a caving ladder to conduct a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) mission during Exercise Alligator Dagger, Dec. 17. The MRF and special amphibious reconnaissance corpsmen provide the MEU with capabilities like ship-borne and airborne raids, reconnaissance and VBSS. The unilateral exercise provides an opportunity for the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 11th MEU to train in amphibious operations within the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The 11th MEU is currently supporting U.S. 5th Fleet’s mission to promote and maintain stability and security in the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Robert B. Brown Jr.)