MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Oct. 23, 2023) Sailors assigned to the weapons department of the world's largest aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) move ordnance onto a weapons elevator on the flight deck during routine operations in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Oct. 23, 2023. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, at the direction of the Secretary of Defense. The U.S. maintains forward-deployed, ready, and postured forces to deter aggression and support security and stability around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Simon Pike)