PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 7, 2022) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) stand by to assist Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) returning to the well deck in combat ready rubber crafts (CRRCs). New Orleans, part of the Tripoli 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 1st Class Desmond Parks)