STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Feb. 8, 2021) The amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) transits the Strait of Hormuz, Feb. 8. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Mackenzie Binion)