NATUNA SEA (Jan. 7, 2023) – A Marine assigned to a Surveillance and Target Acquisition (STA) platoon embarked aboard amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23) watches over Marines engaged in a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) training exercise aboard Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), Jan. 7. Synchronizing the complementary capabilities of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and USS Anchorage multiplies the traditional influence of sea power to produce a more competitive and lethal force. The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport docks USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serves as a ready-response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Tonthat)