161220-M-CC151-013 ARTA BEACH, Djibouti (Dec. 20, 2016) Marines and Sailors with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) embark a landing craft utility (LCU) during exercise Alligator Dagger at Arta Beach, Djibouti. The 11th MEU provides a sea-based Marine Air-Ground Task Force capable of conducting multiple missions from amphibious operations to humanitarian assistance. This provides combatant commanders with a versatile force able to assure allies, deter threats, and maintain a consistent U.S. presence. 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. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Xzavior T. McNeal/Released)