SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 15, 2022) A U.S. Marine with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fast ropes during a day and night fast roping exercise aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 15, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 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)