PHILIPPINE SEA (July 6, 2021) Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Akiel Mayers, from Ann Arbor, Mich., assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), signals the aircraft elevator operator on the ship's flight deck. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 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 Seaman Matthew Cavenaile)