PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 25, 2021) Sailors with dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48), keep the fuel pump from touching the water using a rope during a refueling operation in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 25, 2021. This refueling operation is the first time Ashland has refueled a Mark VI patrol boat while at sea. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating aboard ships of the Amphibious Squadron 11 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 Lance Cpl. Brienna Tuck)