STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Dec. 11, 2021) The Military Sealift Command Dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), bottom right, leads a formation through the Strait of Hormuz with the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), top middle, the fast response cutter USCGC Robert Goldman (WPC 1142), middle right, and the coastal patrol ship USS Whirlwind (PC 11). 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 2nd Class Brett McMinoway)