SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 14, 2022) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alissa Sanchez, from Las Cruses, Calif., signals to an AV-8B Harrier attached to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Jan. 14. Joint Expeditionary Strike Force operations are conducted by the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and Essex Amphibious Ready Group to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Wesley Richardson)