GULF OF ADEN (Oct. 11, 2021) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Jacore Guilford, right, holds onto Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Colby Evans as he signals a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter attached to the White Knights of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), to take off from the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27), Oct. 11, 2021. Portland and the 11th MEU are 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 the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devin Kates)