PHILIPPINE SEA (June 12, 2021) Sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18) handle line as a Landing Craft Utility enters the well deck during a multilateral exercise involving the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. New Orleans, part of the America ARG, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility 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 Desmond Parks)