Today's US Navy Photos & Videos

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 6, 2011) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) transits in formation as the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship JS Hyuga (DDH 181) transits in the background. Essex and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) is operating off the coast of Kesenuma in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark R. Alvarez/Released)

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CARIBBEAN SEA (April 4, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Boone (FFG 28) fire an MK 38 25 mm mounted gun during a practice fire. Boone is deployed in support of Southern Seas 2011. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stuart Phillips/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 8, 2011) Lt. j.g. Teri Bolinsky, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), lowers a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) into the ocean during a training operation. George Washington departed from her forward-operating port of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka in response to the complex nature of the disaster that struck Japan on March 11. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cheng S. Yang/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 6, 2011) Culinary Specialist 1st Class Victor Mitchell, front, and Sgt. Evan Westpfahl, assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU), prepare grilled hamburgers for Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Martin Cuaron/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 8, 2011) Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) Airman Alexander Hermann, from Klamath Falls, Ore., assigned to the Cougars of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, screws in wing fold struts to an EA-6B Prowler in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart/Released)

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CHANGWON, Republic of Korea (April 8, 2011) The U.S. 7th Fleet Band marches through the streets during the 2011 Jinhae International Military Band and Honor Guard Festival. The band is performing with nine other international military bands during the three-day event, which takes place every two years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dustin Kelling/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 9, 2011) Master Chief Keith G. Oxley, command master chief of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), carries a flag during a burial at sea. Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are conducting close-air support missions in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jesse L. Gonzalez/Released)

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PHILIPPINE SEA (April 3, 2011) The guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) transits in front of the guided-missile frigate USS Reuben James (FFG 57) during Malabar 2011, a bilateral training operation with the Indian navy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron M. Pineda/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 9, 2011) Chief Logistics Specialist Adriana Cabarcas, from Gary, Ind., attempts to connect a cargo pendant to an SA-330 Puma helicopter as it hovers over the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during an underway. Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Jameka Davis, from Cincinnati Ohio, displays the gross weight of an F/A-18F Super Hornet aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

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NORFOLK (April 8, 2011) Tom and Pat Modafferi, parents of Lt. Laura Modafferi, a pharmacist assigned to the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), and her boyfriend, Andrew Koons, wave farewell as Comfort departs Naval Station Norfolk for Continuing Promise 2011. Continuing Promise is a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to nine countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America. (U.S. Navy photo by Fire Controlman 3rd Class Jovante L. Washington/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 10, 2011) Sailors secure an aerial intercept missile (AIM) to an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Red Rippers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are conducting close-air support missions in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jesse L. Gonzalez/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) The Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) is en route to Kingston, Jamaica for a Continuing Promise 2011 port visit. Continuing Promise is a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to nine countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Courtney Richardson/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) Sailors and Marines prepare Navy and Marine Corps helicopters for take off from the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is on patrol in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adam M. Bennett/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) An AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 262 takes off from the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex, commanded by Capt. David Fluker, is on patrol in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adam M. Bennett/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 9, 2011) Seaman Sualllah Osman stands port wing watch during a simulated straights transit exercise aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19). Mesa Verde is part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group supporting U.S. and international efforts off the coast of Libya in the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josue L. Escobosa/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 5, 2011) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) participate in an all-hands working party during a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Robert E. Peary (T-AKE 5). Barry is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 9, 2011) Chief Aviation Support Equipment Technician Yeri A. Jimenez, right, adjusts a neckerchief for Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Cheng Qiu during a dress uniform inspection aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are conducting close-air support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jared M. King/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 9, 2011) Navy and Air Force service members and non-government organization workers are trained for flight operations in an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20). Comfort is en-route to Jamaica for a Continuing Promise 2011 port visit. Continuing Promise is a five-month annual deployment to nine countries in the Caribbean and Central and South America. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 6, 2011) Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Blais, left, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Jesse Seagrave secure a cargo net around a load of waste oil barrels that will be transported by helicopter from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15) to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Robert E. Peary (T-AKE 5). Ponce is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) An aircraft director guides an MV-22B Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced) to a landing aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera/Released)

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VAVA'U, Tonga (April 13, 2010) Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1665 delivers supplies and equipment for Pacific Partnership 2011. Pacific Partnership is a a five-month humanitarian assistance initiative that will make port visits to Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and the Federated States of Micronesia. Pacific Partnership 2011 is a promoting cooperation throughout the Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman John Grandin/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 12, 2011) Sailors assigned to the Supply Department aboard of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) reorganize hundreds of pallets in Hangar Bay 3. Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 12, 2011) Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Kwadjo Ofosu, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, checks an AIM-9 Sidewinder on an F/A-18C Hornet before launch aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 are conducting maritime security operations and close-air support missions in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Timothy A. Hazel/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 11, 2011) Landing signal enlisted (LSE) personnel observe as AV-8B Harrier assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced) land aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) Sailors heave lines on the boat deck aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) during a replenishment at sea. Mesa Verde is deploying as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josue L. Escobosa/Released)

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (April 13, 2011) U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman march through Tecumseh Court during a formal parade on the school's campus. The midshipmen will participate in three additional formal parades before the end of their spring semester. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chad Runge/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 15, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile cruiser USS Preble (DDG 88) approaches the port side of the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) during a replenishment at sea with the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew Jackson/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 15, 2011) An SA-330 Puma helicopter assigned to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) drops cargo pallets onto the deck of Richard E. Byrd during a replenishment at sea with the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nicholas A. Groesch/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the Blackhawks of Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 prepares to land aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is underway in preparation for the unit level training assessment sustainment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 14, 2011) The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) transits the western Pacific Ocean. Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 9, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) fires its MK-45 5-inch 54 mm cannon during a point accuracy check fire exercise. Barry is on a routine deployment conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation missions in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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NAVAL AIR STATION JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (April 6, 2011) Three P-3C Orion aircraft with heritage paint schemes are positioned on the tarmac next to the Navy's next generation of anti-submarine warfare and long-range maritime patrol aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon, rear left, and the unmanned Broad Area Maritime Surveillance (BAMS) aircraft, center. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist William Lovelady/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 15, 2011) An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Cougars of the Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (April 14, 2011) A U.S. Air Force bugler plays Taps during a remembrance ceremony for the Fletcher-class USS Sigsbee (DD 502) aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93). The ceremony was held to pay respects to the 23 Sailors whose lives were lost when a kamikaze suicide plane struck Sigsbee on April 14, 1945 during the Battle of Okinawa. Chung-Hoon is named in honor of Rear Adm. Gordon Paie'a Chung-Hoon, who was awarded the Navy Cross and Silver Star for gallantry as the commanding officer of Sigsbee during the Battle of Okinawa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (April 13, 2011) The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) moves from the NASSCO dry dock to Naval Base San Diego with the help of tugboats. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Dragon Whales of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 delivers supplies to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 202). The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is deployed in the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Martin Cuaron/Released)

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NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (April 10, 2011) Members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard prepare to entertain Navy Safe Harbor and Wounded Warrior Regiment enrollees and their families during an outdoor reception at the National Harbor. The event marks the beginning of the 2011 Sea-Air-Space Exposition, hosted by the Navy League of the United States. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) Airman Steven Gardner, from Ft. La Grange, Calif., assigned to the Black Knights of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154, cleans the cockpit window of an F/A-18F Super Hornet aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn J. Stewart/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) A qualified aircraft handler advises two Sailors being trained as aircraft handlers before launching an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Black Eagles of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113 from the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

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WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (April 12, 2011) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit organize equipment after debarking the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is completing a three-month patrol in the western Pacific Ocean that included participation in disaster relief operations in northeastern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (April 12, 2011) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) debark the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is completing a three-month patrol in the western Pacific Ocean that included participation in disaster relief operations in northeastern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 12, 2011) The crew of an MV-22B Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced) conducts pre-flight checks aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). The amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) is underway in the background. Bataan and Mesa Verde are deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 12, 2011) The amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) is underway during a training exercise in the Atlantic Ocean. Mesa Verde is deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera/Released)

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BURAS, La. (April 12, 2011) Peter Bay Le, in his South Vietnamese Army uniform, watches his house be rebuilt by volunteers, including Sailors assigned to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VR) 54, and Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic New Orleans Detachment. Le was a South Vietnamese army officer during the Vietnam War and a prisoner of war before immigrating to the U.S. The Navy partnered with The United Way and The Fuller Center for Housing Disaster ReBuilders to rebuild Le's home. The house was destroyed during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John P. Curtis/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 6, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) is underway in rough seas. Higgins is deployed with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Alex T. Mabini/Released)

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KINGSTON, Jamaica (April 13, 2011) The Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) is conducting a Continuing Promise 2011 port visit to Kingston. Continuing Promise is a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South American. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kim Williams/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 13, 2011) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Rene Varela, from Pasadena, Calif., assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 3, 332nd platoon, fires an M-4 carbine during weapons familiarization aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dylan McCord/Released)

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KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (April 8, 2011) Sailors assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1, Company 15, direct a CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter as it lifts sections of another CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter. The halved helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing in the bay March 29 and killed one of the crewmen and injured the other three. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Main/Released)

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SASEBO, Japan (April 14, 2011) Quartermaster 3rd Class Elvis Gomez, right, checks a navigation chart while Quartermaster 2nd Class Kevin Bell makes a log entry on the bridge of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is returning to Sasebo after completing a three-month patrol of the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark R. Alvarez/Released)

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HUNGGA, Tonga (April 15, 2011) Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Anna Wood relaxes after a medical civil assistance program operation in support of Pacific Partnership 2011. Tonga is the first of five Pacific island nations visited for Pacific Partnership 2011 including Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and the Federated States of Micronesia. Pacific Partnership is a humanitarian assistance initiative, which promotes cooperation throughout the Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman John Grandin/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (April 8, 2011) The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) returns to Submarine Base New London following a scheduled deployment. Providence supported Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn, launching cruise missiles against Libyan air defense, surface-to-air missiles sites and communication nodes. (U.S. Navy photo by John Narewski/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (April 8, 2011) Senior Chief Sonar Technician (Submarine) Matthew Lindsey hugs his wife and daughter after the Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) returned to Submarine Base New London following a scheduled deployment. Providence supported Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn, launching cruise missiles against Libyan air defense, surface-to-air missiles sites and communication nodes. (U.S. Navy photo by John Narewski/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 14, 2011) Sailors aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) scrub down the flight deck as the ship prepares to enter port. Essex is returning to Sasebo after completing a three-month patrol of the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Adam M. Bennett/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 12, 2011) Chief Boatswain's Mate Stanley Weaver, front, from Johnston, S.C., a helicopter control officer aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), communicates as Lt. j.g. Jason Cononigo, back left, from Virginia Beach, Va., and Lt. Ernesto Ureta, from Columbia, Mo., prepare for flight deck operations. Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, which deployed ahead of its original schedule in order to relieve units from the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group in the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Martin Cuaron/Released)

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WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (April 12, 2011) A landing craft utility approaches the well deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) to offload vehicles from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU). Essex is completing a three-month patrol in the western Pacific Ocean that included participation in disaster relief operations in northeastern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (April 12, 2011) Sailors assigned to White Beach Naval Facility heave mooring lines from the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is completing a three-month patrol in the western Pacific Ocean that included participation in disaster relief operations in northeastern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl/Released)

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SALVADOR, Brazil (April 15, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Boone (FFG 28) fire the 40 mm saluting battery to greet the port city of Salvador, Brazil. Boone is deployed in support of Southern Seas 2011. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stuart Phillips/Released)

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Jamaica (April 16, 2011) Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, embarked aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) as part of Continuing Promise 2011 (CP11), prepares for flight operations. CP11 is a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South America. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 18, 2011) Capt. Capt. Kevin Mannix, deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, lands an F/A-18 Hornet aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) to complete his 1,000th arrested carrier landing. Ronald Reagan is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shawn Stewart/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (April 16, 2011) An F/A-18C Hornet from the Blue Diamonds of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 speeds off after making an attack run on a simulated target in the wake of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a live-fire training exercise. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is operating in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nicholas A. Groesch/Released)

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KEY WEST, Fla. (April 15, 2011) An F/A-18 Super Hornet and an F4U Corsair fly in a legacy formation during a practice flight for the Centennial of Naval Aviation Celebration at Naval Air Station Key West. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael McNabb/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (April 16, 2011) The newly christened Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) is launched into San Diego Harbor. William McLean was christened by Margaret Taylor, the eldest niece of Dr. William McLean, the U.S. Navy physicist who conceived and developed the heat-seeking Sidewinder missile. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alan Gragg/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 20, 2011) Marines from the Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22 MEU), prepare for a small-arms training exercise aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is deploying to the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Erin Lea Boyce/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 17, 2011) The amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4), left, conducts a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187). Boxer is underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Trevor Welsh/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (April 20, 2011) Air Traffic Controller Airman Steven J. Doyel monitors the position of air contacts in the air traffic control center aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are supporting Operation New Dawn in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jesse L. Gonzalez/Released)

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SALVADOR, Brazil (April 18, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Boone (FFG 28) man the rails as Boone departs Salvador, Brazil. Boone is deployed supporting Southern Seas 2011. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stuart Phillips/Released)

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CORONADO, Calif. (April 20, 2011) Students from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/s) Class 287 participate in night gear exchange during the second phase of training at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. During this evolution, two students will enter the water and exchange dive gear with masks that have been completely blackened. The Navy SEALs are the maritime component of U.S. Special Operations Forces and are trained to conduct a variety of operations from the sea, air and land. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kyle D. Gahlau/Released)

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BETHESDA, Md. (April 19, 2011) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Todd E. Hammond shows his Purple Heart medal to his two-year-old daughter as his wife looks on. Hammond was presented the medal for wounds received in action while serving in Afghanistan. (U.S. Navy photo by Zona T. Lewis/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 15, 2011) Culinary Specialist 1st Class Jerome McMiller, left, Aviation Boatswain's (Handling) Airman Recruit Andrew Weatherly, middle, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class Robert Desoto load fresh vegetables onto a cargo elevator for transfer to a refrigerated storeroom below decks during an underway replenishment aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15). Ponce is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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FORT WORTH, Texas (April 17, 2011) Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Jeff Harper and Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Cody Weeks tighten fasteners on a U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, F/A-18 Hornet before a flight demonstration at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base. The Blue Angels performed at the joint reserve base as part of the 2011 show season and in celebration of the Centennial of Naval Aviation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jen Blake/Released)

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FORT WORTH, Texas (April 16, 2011) Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class David Schooley signals Cmdr. Dave Koss, flight leader of the U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels, to start up engine number two of an F/A-18 Hornet before launching for a flight demonstration at Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base. The Blue Angels performed at the joint reserve base as part of the 2011 show season and in celebration of the Centennial of Naval Aviation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jen Blake/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 14, 2011) The visit board, search and seizure (VBSS) team from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15), leads his team along the main deck of guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) during joint VBSS training between the ships. Ponce is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (April 19, 2011) Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Shayne Lopez decorates a cake aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Trevor Welsh/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (April 21, 2011) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) Airman Michael A. Genera uses a sound-powered telephone to communicate with the fuels controller aboard the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) during a refueling at sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are conducting operations in support of Operation New Dawn in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jared M. King/Released)

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