SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 14, 2022) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Kenny Abadilla, a native of Jacksonville, Fla., signals to an AV-8B Harrier attached to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Jan. 15, 2022. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG) and Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESX ARG) are conducting joint expeditionary strike force operations in the South China Sea as part of continuing and routine interoperability training operations in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Isaak Martinez)