ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 6, 2022) Capt. Robert Weede, an AV-8B Harrier II pilot assigned to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 231, receives the signal for takeoff from Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Donahven Beaver on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Dec. 6, 2022. VMA-231 trained with U.S. Sailors to strengthen interoperability and conduct carrier qualifications prior to their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. VMA-231 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christian Cortez)