SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 21, 2023) Airman James Muth stands an overboard discharge watch aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during a replenishment-at-sea with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), Jan. 21, 2023, in the South China Sea. Located to Southeast Asia COMLOG WESTPAC in conjunction with Military Sealift Command Far East, logistically supplies the U.S. Navy’s deployed units in the Western Pacific along with regional Allies and partners. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock 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 Eloise A. Johnson)