PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 22, 2021) Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) conduct well deck operations with a landing craft utility. Ashland, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, serving as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Madysson Anne Ritter)