PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 30, 2021) Marines embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) move cargo on the flight deck during a replenishment-at-sea, Aug. 30, 2021. Essex, flagship of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), 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. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jennessa Davey)