Marines from Marine Attack Squadron's (VMA) 542 ordnance division place a lighting pod onto an AV-8B Harrier on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during Bold Alligator 2012. Exercise Bold Alligator 2012, 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. This exercise takes place from Jan. 30 - Feb. 12, 2012, afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Vargas)