SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 7, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), attach cargo to an MH-60 Sierra, Jan. 7. Forward-deployed, rapid-response, and integrated Navy and Marine Corps capabilities expand the options the Navy-Marine Corps team provides joint-force commanders. The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit is embarked on the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock ships USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) and USS Anchorage (LPD 23), and operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Nicolas Atehortua)