MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 12, 2023) Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Jason Carpenter gives hand signals during aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) during a replenishment-at-sea in the Mediterranean Sea, Dec. 12, 2023. Bulkeley is part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and is currently operating in the East 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 Joseph Macklin)