RED SEA (Oct. 18, 2021) A pilot of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, assigned to the "White Knights" of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), inspects an engine prior to take-off on the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27). 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 Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devin Kates)