GULF OF OMAN (March 16, 2019) – U.S. Marine Sgt. Johnathan

GULF OF OMAN (March 16, 2019) – U.S. Marine Sgt. Johnathan C. Mecklin, a training chief and Weapons and Tactics Instructor with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, cleans the bushing on the tail rotor of a CH-53E Super Stallion on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD-3). Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 (Reinforced) performed post exercise wash downs and re-greasing on aircraft in order to maintain operational readiness. Marines and Sailors with the 22nd MEU and Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group are currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Master Sgt. Lee Pugh/Released)