MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 21, 2021) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Valen Leirer uses a sound powered phone aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during sea-and-anchor. Essex and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit 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 3rd Class Isaak Martinez)