MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Nov. 1, 2023) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 conducts a vertical replenishment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Nov. 4, 2023. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the Mediterranean Sea. 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 2nd Class Jennifer Newsome)