PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 21, 2021) U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) board a Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) with dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 21, 2021. LCACs provide the capability for quick ship to shore operations. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Force (MEU) is operating aboard ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 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 Cpl. Brandon Salas)