WASHINGTON - Vice Adm. Bill Merz signs the Strategic Interoperability Framework at the French Defense Attaché Office in Washington, D.C. Dec. 17. The signing took place following a strategic dialogue via video teleconference with Merz's French counterpart, Vice-Admiral Christophe Lucas, Marine Nationale, Director of International Engagements. Merz is Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Operations, Plans and Strategy. (Photo courtesy of the French Navy)