150228-N-YK910-007 PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 28, 2015) The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) participates in a simulated straits transit. The Essex ARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), the San Antonio-class transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23), and the Whidbey Island-class amphibious landing dock ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47). Essex is underway conducting an amphibious squadron and Marine expeditionary unit integration training exercise with Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 3 and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU) in preparation for an upcoming deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher B. Janik/Released)