MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 11, 2023) Airman Levi Taukete, assigned to the "Bear Aces" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 124, prepares to chain a C-2A Greyhound attached to the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40, on the flight deck of the world's largest aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Dec. 11, 2023. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the 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 2nd Class Nolan Pennington)