MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 15, 2023) Vice Adm. Thomas Ishee, commander of U.S. Sixth Fleet, is piped aboard the world's largest aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during a scheduled ship visit, Dec. 15, 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 3rd Class Simon Pike)