MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 11, 2023) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Hunter Athey, assigned to the air department of the world's largest aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), sets tension on an E-2D Hawkeye, attached to the "Bear Aces" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 124, on the flight deck, 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 3rd Class Maxwell Orlosky)