KUWAIT (March 2, 2021) Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Robert Cheely, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, currently embarked with the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), performs landing checks in an MH-60S Sea Hawk. 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 Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob D. Bergh)