PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 25, 2022) Sailors assigned to Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) participate in a fire drill aboard Essex, Jan. 25, 2022. Essex, flagship of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with alliances and partners and serve as a ready response force to ensure maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brett McMinoway)