EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 5, 2021) Engineman 1st Class Scott Kruse, from Murrieta, Calif., uses a fuel conditioning control panel aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18), during routine operations. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, is operating in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)