PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 25, 2021) Aviation Support Technician 2nd Class Michael Mandafe, left, from Iloilo City, Philippines, and Sgt. Andres Gutierrezdiaz, right, from Visalia, Calif., assigned to Marine Medium Tilt-rotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conduct maintenance aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Aug. 25, 2021. Essex, flagship of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with the 11th MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and server as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Richard E. Anglin)