SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 6, 2020) Cpl. Richard Simons IV, a reconnaissance marine with the Maritime Raid Force (MRF), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), provides aerial security during a Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) mission on a UH-1Y Venom helicopter with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 (Reinforced), 31st MEU, 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 America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit team, is operating in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Brandon Salas)