OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 27, 2021) A Sailor embarked aboard dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) raises the ensign on a Landing Craft Personnel Large during a night boat raid rehearsal off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, on Jan. 27, 2021. Kilo Company conducted the raid in the dark to enhance proficiency for night operations. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group 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 Sgt. Danny Gonzalez)