MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 11, 2023) Aviation Structural Mechanic (Safety Equipment) 2nd Class Keoni Brown, assigned to the "Tomcatters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31, final checks an F/A-18E Super Hornet 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 3rd Class Maxwell Orlosky)