PELELIU, Palau (March 3, 2021) U.S. Marine Corps Col. Michael Nakonieczny, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) commanding officer, and U.S. Navy Capt. Brian Schrum, commanding officer of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18), stand on a beach on the Island of Peleliu in the Republic of Palau, March 3, 2021. The 31st MEU 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 Sgt. Dominic Clay)