STRAIT OF HORMUZ (March 17, 2021) Amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and guided missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73) transit the Strait of Hormuz, March 17. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operation 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 Cpl. Patrick Crosley)