SEA OF JAPAN (Sept. 4, 2022) U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out during a boat launch sustainment exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 4, 2022. Launching from the well deck provides the MEU a ship-to-shore capability. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group 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. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Danny Gonzalez)