SOUTH CHINA SEA (Dec. 4, 2022) Marines assigned to 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participate in a replenishment-at-sea aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Dec. 4, 2022. Replenishments-at-sea ensure the crew receives and maintains an adequate food supply, as well as transporting mail and packages from the ship. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of Makin Island and the amphibious transport docks USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kendra Helmbrecht)