170515-N-ZQ712-0116 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 15, 2017) Aviation

170515-N-ZQ712-0116 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 15, 2017) Aviation Boatswain’s Mates (Handling) transition to a safe area after securing an MH-60 Sea Hawk assigned to the “Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 to the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). More than 1,800 Sailors and 2,600 Marines assigned to the America Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 15th MEU are currently conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the coast of Southern California in preparation for the ARG's deployment later this year. America ARG is comprised of America, the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), and the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Chad Swysgood/Released)