STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Dec. 11, 2021) The amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) conducts a strait transit with the fast response cutter USCGC Robert Goldman (WPC 1142), left, the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), middle, 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 3rd Class Isaak Martinez)