PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 26, 2020) Marines with Maritime Raid Force (MRF), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), provide aerial security during a visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) mission on an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Archangels of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 Detachment 6, after taking off from amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). VBSS is part of Maritime Interception Operations that aim to delay, disrupt, or destroy enemy forces or supplies in the maritime domain. America, flagship of the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), 31st MEU team, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The America ARG, 31st MEU team remains the premier crisis response force in the region despite the unique challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Brandon Salas)