USS Essex (LHD 2) at anchor in the Gulf of Thailand. 8 May 2008

The amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) at anchor in the Gulf of Thailand. 8 May 2008

The amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) at anchor in the Gulf of Thailand. 8 May 2008

The amphibious transport dock ship USS Juneau 8 May 2008

The amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) at anchor in the Gulf of Thailand. 8 May 2008

Seaman Chris Smith, assigned to Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 1, directs a 'Humvee' as it departs Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1627. 8 May 2008

U. S. Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Sailors assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 and Beachm 8 May 2008

A Marine MH-53 helicopter, assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (HMM-265), takes off from the flight deck of the am 8 May 2008

A Marine MH-53 helicopter, assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (HMM-265), takes off from the flight deck of the am 8 May 2008