PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 22, 2022) Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Ariel Earl, from Tampa, Fla., assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), launches an F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) off of the ship's flight deck. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Thomas B. Contant)