PHILIPPINE SEA (June 2, 2021) Vice Adm. Bill Merz, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, addresses the crew of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during an admirals call. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Vincent E. Zline)