GULF OF ADEN (July 13, 2021) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Britani Parker, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), communicates with the flight deck from flight deck control during flight operations in the Gulf of Aden, July 13. Iwo Jima is 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 and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jessica Kibena)