An amphibious assault vehicle assigned to 2nd Amphibious Assault Battalion, Delta Company, 1st Platoon, splashes from the well deck of amphibious assault ship USS Wasp into the Atlantic Ocean during a beach assault exercise as Wasp is underway to participate in Exercise Bold Alligator. Bold Alligator, the largest naval amphibious exercise in the past 10 years, represents the Navy and Marine Corps' revitalization of the full range of amphibious operations. The exercise focuses on today's fight with today's forces, while showcasing the advantages of seabasing. The exercise takes place Jan. 30 - Feb. 12, 2012, afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Stuart Phillips)