Today's US Navy Photos & Videos

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2012) The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), and the amphibious dock landing ship ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) offload ammunition to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9) while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are returning after supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan L. Correa/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 11, 2012) Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Jessica Duenas makes a door hook out of a steel rod aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cyrus Roson/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 11, 2012) Gunner's Mate Seaman Jordan Jarvis cleans a M240B machine gun during weapon maintenance aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). Gunston Hall and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Greece (Dec. 12, 2012) Lt. Kim Manuel, participates in a small-arms course aboard the Hellenic navy training ship Aris at the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Center during Eurasia Partnership Capstone 2012 (EPC 12). EPC is hosted annually by the U.S. Navy and aims to increase maritime safety and security through workshops and seminars. Nations participating in EPC include Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Romania, Ukraine and the United States. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Christopher B. Stoltz/Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Dec. 13, 2012) Musician 1st Class Brian Nefferdorf, assigned to the U.S. 7th Fleet Far East Edition Brass Band, plays a banjo while performing Christmas songs with students from Ikego Elementary School during a holiday concert. The band's eight member ensemble performs throughout the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Declan Barnes/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 12, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk from the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 picks up stores from the flight deck of the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) during a replenishment-at-sea with aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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GROTON, Conn. (Dec. 11, 2012) Santa Claus rides aboard the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS San Juan (SSN 751) as the boat returns to Naval Submarine Base New London. Military children received toys hand-delivered by Santa that were donated from Operation Homefront in conjunction with Dollar Tree stores. (U.S. Navy photograph by Lt. David Lincoln/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 10, 2012) Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 3rd Class Nicole Roderick directs line handlers aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) during a replenishment-at-sea. Jason Dunham is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 10, 2012) Seaman Angelica Hilariofigueroa and Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Drew Miller signal during a replenishment-at-sea aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 9, 2012) Seaman Dominic Gbada stands steers the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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SOUDA BAY, Greece (Dec. 11, 2012) U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Adam Chamie and Hellenic navy Ensign Alexander Tsaltas conduct a boarding exercise aboard the Hellenic navy training ship Aris at the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operational Training Center during Eurasia Partnership Capstone 2012 (EPC 12). Annually hosted by the U.S. Navy, EPC aims to increase maritime safety and security through workshops and seminars. Nations participating in EPC include Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Romania, Ukraine and the United States. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Christopher B. Stoltz/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 7, 2012) Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Joseph Strauss examines a sample of fuel aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) during a replenishment-at-sea.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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NORFOLK, Va. (Dec. 14, 2012) Seaman Recruit Guillermo Garciavillareal adjusts the national ensign on the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) to half-mast in remembrance of the victims and families impacted by the Dec. 14 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. President Barack Obama ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff Friday to honor victims of the mass shooting. (U.S. Navy photo by Sonar Technician 3rd Class Christopher A. Brewer/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 14, 2012) An SA-330 Puma helicopter picks up pallets from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU) and is deployed in support of 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 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 14, 2012) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Ian Kirk prepares to fire a shot line from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11). (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 13, 2012) A Sailor attaches ammunition to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter during an ammunition offload aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima and embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are deployed after supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Scott Youngblood/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2012) The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) underway in the Atlantic Ocean. New York and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are deployed after supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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CORONADO, Calif. (Dec. 14, 2012) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) sits pierside at Naval Air Station North Island. Carl Vinson is currently undergoing planned incremental availability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Benjamin Stevens/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 17, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Ronald Lewis helps Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Andrea Smith direct an aircraft in the hangar bay aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 14, 2012) Personnel assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Southeast tow an EA-6B Prowler aircraft down Yorktown Boulevard at Naval Air Station Jacksonville towards Heritage Park. The Prowler is painted in a World War II paint scheme and displays the names of several naval aviator heroes including Capt. Scott Speicher who was shot down during the Gulf War, Capt. Michael Estocin, a Medal of Honor recipient for actions during the Vietnam Conflict, Cmdr. Harry Ferrier, a hero during the Battle of Midway and Korean War Ace Cmdr. Guy Bordelon, Jr. The aircraft is on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Fla. (U.S. Navy photo by Kaylee LaRocque/Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Dec. 14, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Cameron Moses, from Cocoa Beach, Fla., greases catapult four on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michelle N. Rasmusson/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 15, 2012) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Diana Rodriguez, from San Diego, treats a patient during a medical emergency drill aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsy Alamina/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (Dec. 14, 2012) The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Greeneville (SSN 772) moors to the pier at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam after a six-month deployment to the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Steven Khor Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 13, 2012) Operations Specialist Seaman Andrew Villanueva fires an M2HB .50-caliber machine gun as Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Michael Wakefield observes during a live-fire exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). Jason Dunham is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 15, 2012) Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Samantha Haag lights a menorah on the seventh night of Hanukkah aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is transiting to her homeport of Norfolk after operating in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sabrina Fine/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 14, 2012) Sailors handle a cable for a Nixie torpedo countermeasure system aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class D.J. Revell/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 15, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Chelsea Miller moves an F/A-18C Hornet aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sabrina Fine/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 16, 2012) The aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) transits the Atlantic Ocean en route to homeport at Naval Station Norfolk after operating in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jermaine M. Ralliford/Released)

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BATH , Maine (Dec. 14, 2012) The 1,000-ton deckhouse of the future destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) is craned toward the deck of the ship to be integrated with the ship's hull at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works. The ship launch and christening are planned in 2013. (U.S. Navy photos/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 14, 2012) Seaman Samuel Soto, from San Diego, right, and Seaman Edward Johnson, from Memphis, Tenn., prepare to attach a cargo pendant to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter during a vertical replenishment aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 14, 2012) Sailors unload sonobuoys from an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain (Dec. 8, 2012) Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Eric Algarin, from Oak Lawn, Ill., throws round turns in a mooring line as the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) moors. Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 18, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk of the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 picks up stores from the flight deck of the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) during a replenishment-at-sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 11, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Salvador Santayana, from San Diego, directs an aircraft forward aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 18, 2012) Lt. Jamie Roman, dressed as Santa Claus, launches an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Rampagers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during the departure of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7. Dwight D. Eisenhower is returning to its homeport of Norfolk after operating in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 18, 2012) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Jolly Rogers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during the departure of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 18, 2012) Lt. Cmdr. Brian Judy, assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, hugs his family during a homecoming at Naval Station Norfolk. The Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Group returned home after a six-month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operating Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Smevog/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 20, 2012) The aircraft carriers USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), the retired USS Enterprise (CVN 65), USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), and USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) are in port at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., the world's largest naval station. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ernest R. Scott/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 20, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) is moored at Naval Station Norfolk during the station's 16th Annual Operation Decorama competition. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Hurt/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (Dec. 18, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) displays its holiday lights at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Ships and submarines home-ported in Hawaii participate in the annual Pearl Harbor Holiday Festival of Lights. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Diana Quinlan/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 20, 2012) Fire Controlman 3rd Class Zachary Brewer, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), greets his fiancé during a homecoming celebration. Iwo Jima returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, Exercises African Lion, Eager Lion, International Mine Countermeasure Exercise 2012, and maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie Matyascik/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 20, 2012) Logistics Specialist 1st Class Courtney Weed, assigned to USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), greets her family during a homecoming celebration. Iwo Jima returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie Matyascik/Released)

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Dec. 18, 2012) Cmdr. Matt Barker, executive officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131, is reunited with his wife and children during a homecoming celebration for the squadron. VFA-131, part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, returns to Naval Air Station Oceana after a six month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Antonio P. Turretto Ramos/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 17, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 perform maintenance atop an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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NORFOLK (Dec. 20, 2012) The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) arrives at Naval Station Norfolk after a deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. New York returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, Exercises African Lion, Eager Lion, International Mine Countermeasure Exercise 2012, and maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas. New York is built with 7 ½ tons of steel salvaged from the World Trade Center. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Lolita Lewis/Released)

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GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Dec. 19, 2012) Recruits take the oath of citizenship during a naturalization ceremony at Recruit Training Command, the Navy's only boot camp. (U.S. Navy Photos by Lt. Liza Swart/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 15, 2012) Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Cody Humphrey and Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Koji Silk, both assigned to the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, perform wire checks on the radar of an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 11, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Justin Bryan and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Matthew Fulks clear the launching area as an F/A-18C Hornet from the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 prepares to launch from the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Dec. 18, 2012) Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, returns to Naval Air Station Oceana after a six-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations and theater of security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Antonio P. Turretto Ramos/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 16, 2012) Seaman Darrell Spencer, from Cloverfield, N.J., stands aft lookout watch on the fantail of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) as an aircraft prepares to land. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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YOKOSUKA, Japan (Dec. 25, 2012) Sailors cut a Christmas cake aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during a special holiday meal. George Washington forward deployed at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Recruit Spencer Rhoades/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 18, 2012) Sailors hurry to slide a pallet of food away from the receiving area of the flight deck aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) during a vertical replenishment. Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain (Dec. 11, 2012) Fire Controlman 3rd Class Vincent Schaefer puts a round turn on a bitt aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) as the ship moors. Farragut is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class A.J. Jones/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 16, 2012) Seaman Jesse Pipper directs crane operations in the boat valley aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU) and is deployed in support of 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 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 16, 2012) Amphibious assault vehicles approach the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 16, 2012) Seaman Kevin Campbell directs an amphibious assault vehicle in the well deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20).(U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 16, 2012) Amphibious assault vehicles transit the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 18, 2012) Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Jennifer Gonzales, from New Port Richey, Fla., hauls in excess line during a replenishment-at-sea aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (Dec. 20, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) Airman Jimmy Young helps lower a catapult on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Theodore Roosevelt is in the last year of a refueling and complex overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eric Norcross/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 21, 2012) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) signal to the air crew of an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Proud Warriors of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, Det. 7, to raise Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Cody Weaver off the flight deck with a rescue basket during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise. Jason Dunham is deployed with the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 29, 2012) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) prepare to launch a rigid-hull inflatable boat during a man overboard drill. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 29, 2012) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) prepare to secure a rigid-hull inflatable boat for sea after a man overboard drill. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 28, 2012) Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Casan Lino demonstrates proper clearing barrel procedures with an M16 rifle as Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Kevin Tow observes during weapons familiarization aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 28, 2012) Hull Maintenance Technician Fireman Apprentice Cody Shay observes a test of the countermeasure wash down system aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 21, 2012) Naval Air Crewmen 2nd Class Christopher Underwood raises Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Cody Weaver in a rescue basket to an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Proud Warriors of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, Det. 7, during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 21, 2012) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Mark Hoggard fingerprints Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 3rd Class Nicole Roderick with a biometrics kit during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 21, 2012) Yeoman 2nd Class Ras-Neheisi Benzo descends a ladder from the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) into a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deven B. King/Released)

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BLACK SEA (July 19, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) and a Turkish navy patrol boat operate in the Black Sea during Exercise Sea Breeze 2012. Sea Breeze is co-hosted by the Ukrainian and U.S. navies and is intended to improve maritime safety, security and stability engagements in the Black Sea by enhancing the capabilities of Partnership for Peace and Black Sea regional maritime security forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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DUNHAM, JASON L.
Rank and Organization: Corporal, United States Marine Corps

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Rifle Squad Leader, 4th Platoon, Company K, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines (Reinforced), Regimental Combat Team 7, First Marine Division (Reinforced), on 14 April 2004. Corporal Dunham's squad was conducting a reconnaissance mission in the town of Karabilah, Iraq, when they heard rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire erupt approximately two kilometers to the west. Corporal Dunham led his Combined Anti-Armor Team towards the engagement to provide fire support to their Battalion Commander's convoy, which had been ambushed as it was traveling to Camp Husaybah. As Corporal Dunham and his Marines advanced, they quickly began to receive enemy fire. Corporal Dunham ordered his squad to dismount their vehicles and led one of his fire teams on foot several blocks south of the ambushed convoy. Discovering seven Iraqi vehicles in a column attempting to depart, Corporal Dunham and his team stopped the vehicles to search them for weapons. As they approached the vehicles, an insurgent leaped out and attacked Corporal Dunham. Corporal Dunham wrestled the insurgent to the ground and in the ensuing struggle saw the insurgent release a grenade. Corporal Dunham immediately alerted his fellow Marines to the threat. Aware of the imminent danger and without hesitation, Corporal Dunham covered the grenade with his helmet and body, bearing the brunt of the explosion and shielding his Marines from the blast. In an ultimate and selfless act of bravery in which he was mortally wounded, he saved the lives of at least two fellow Marines. By his undaunted courage, intrepid fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Dunham gallantly gave his life for his country, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

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Coat of Arms

SHIELD: Azure, in base two chevronels Or, on a pale Gules an unsheathed enlisted sword point down Proper, overall a crested helmet of antiquity of the second garnished Purpure, in dexter chief a mullet Or, a bordure of the last. On a wreath Or and Azure the inverted star of the Medal of Honor Proper surmounted by the Marine Corps eagle, globe and anchor insignia Argent intertwining in base the Combat Action Ribbon Proper.

Symbolism

Shield: The colors dark blue and gold represent the United States Navy. The two chevronels in base recall Corporal Dunham’s rank. The scarlet pale represents the Marine Corps and refers to the trouser stripe worn by Non Commissioned Officers. The Marine Corps Non Commissioned Officers sword on the stripe is point down, signifying Cpl Dunham’s sacrifice of his life to protect his troops. The helmet of antiquity recalls the service traditions of brotherhood which hold true today and recalls the incident of enemy attack on Cpl Dunham’s squad during which he used his helmet to contain a grenade and covered it with his body to protect his squad at the cost of his own life. The purple detail on the helmet refers to the Purple Heart Medal awarded Cpl Dunham. The distinctive shield shape is that used on the state arms of New York, Cpl Dunham’s home state. The gold mullet in dexter chief signifies the loss of Cpl Dunham to his service and his family. The gold border denotes the unity and cohesion of Marine Corps service members which characterize the force and clearly influenced Cpl Dunham’s action in defense of his troops.

Crest: The decorations awarded Corporal Dunham are represented along with the eagle, globe and anchor insignia of the United States Marine Corps; the inverted mullet symbolizes the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest decoration for valor awarded to Cpl Dunham for his sacrifice in protecting his squad, and the Combat Action Ribbon, awarded to him along with the Purple Heart Medal, which is referenced on the antique helmet appearing on the shield.

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SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (Dec. 29, 2012) The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) maneuvers alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Bremerton is on a deployment to the western Pacific. emory S. Land is undergoing repairs in the Philippines while conducting coordinated tending moorings and afloat maintenance in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared Aldape/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 29, 2012) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Golden Dragons of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192 launches from the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 1, 2013) Aviation Electrician's Mate 3rd Class Hugh Ratsch, from Montgomery, Ala., runs a diagnostics program from the cockpit of an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 in the hangar bay of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lex T. Wenberg / Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 29, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Brian Adams directs an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 29, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Mayra Sanchez signals for the forward movement of an aircraft on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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OLD CABALAN, Republic of the Philippines (Dec. 21, 2012) Information Systems Technician Seaman Recruit Isabel Miramontes, assigned to the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39), hands out gifts to children during a community service event at Niños Pag Asa orphanage in Old Cabalan. Sailors and faculty decorated the center for the children and helped them celebrate the holidays. Niños Pag Asa is a local orphanage that cares for children with special needs and disabilities. Emory S. Land is undergoing a voyage repair period in Subic Bay during an extended deployment conducting coordinated tended moorings and afloat maintenance in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared Aldape/Released)

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OLD CABALAN, Republic of the Philippines (Dec. 21, 2012) Chief Logistics Specialist Desma Bishun, assigned to the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) helps a child color a holiday decoration during a community service event at Niños Pag Asa orphanage in Old Cabalan.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared Aldape/Released)

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GREAT LAKES, Ill. (Dec. 28, 2012) Graduating recruits march past the official party during the final Recruit Training Command pass-in-review graduation of 2012 in the USS Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall. Recruit Training Command turned more than 37,000 civilians into Sailors in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Scott A. Thornbloom/Released)

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U.S. 5th FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 28, 2012) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Ernest Obengmanu, left, and Seaman Daniel Desir connect a replenishment fixture aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) during a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Walter S. Diehl (T-AO 193). Farragut is deployed with the John C. Stennis Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class A.J. Jones/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 28, 2012) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Joshua Humphreys (T-AO 188) prepares to conduct a replenishment with the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), not pictured. Mobile Bay is deployed with the John C. Stennis Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Dec. 27, 2012) Navy Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Marqueta C. Rodgers sings the national anthem at a Bridgement Education Holiday Bowl in Qualcom Stadium to kickoff a University of California-Los Angeles Bruins versus Texas Baylor University Bears. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Veronica Mammina/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Dec. 27, 2012) A member of the U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, the Leap Frogs, lands at Qualcomm stadium during the opening ceremony of the 2012 Bridgeport Education Holiday Bowl. The Leap Frogs are based in San Diego and perform aerial precision parachute demonstrations across America in support of Special Warfare and Navy recruiting. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Oscar Espinoza./Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 24, 2012) Culinary Specialist Seaman Charmaine Yutuc speaks with Jen Steele from the Union-Tribune San Diego while aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and is deployed in support of 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 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 30, 2012) Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Gregory Priebe, from Newark, N.Y., grinds paint from a drop-tank on an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lex T. Wenberg/Released)

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U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Dec. 30, 2012) Sailors fire M-16 rifles during small arms weapons qualification on aircraft elevator three aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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