SASEBO, Japan (June 9, 2022) Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, addresses officers and chief petty officers assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in the ship's wardroom. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations 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 Matthew Cavenaile)