150204-N-KL846-199 PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 4, 2015) A Sailor salutes the pilot of an AH-1Z Viper helicopter attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced) as it launches from the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during routine flight operations. Makin Island, the flagship of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is on a deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to promote peace and freedom of the seas by providing security and stability in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Lindahl/Released)