EAST CHINA SEA (March 16, 2023) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Dejerrian Michael, from Dallas, assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), directs a MV-22B Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 362 (Rein.), 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, to take off of the ship’s flight deck during forward arming and refueling ship (FARS) operations, while sailing in the East China Sea. Makin Island and America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, conducted FARS operations in the 7th Fleet area of operations, the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely operating with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific Region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Thomas B. Contant)