PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 13, 2021) U.S. Marines, assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), guide a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter’s crane to pick up cargo during a Helicopter Support Team (HST) exercise aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). Marines conduct HST training in order to increase proficiency in logistics tasks and enhance the ability to execute potential contingency missions carried out be the 31st MEU. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Strike Group 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 Lance Cpl. Malik Lewis)