DAKAR, Senegal (July 21, 2011) - Coast Guardsmen and Senegalese marines wait aboard Coast Guard Cutter Forward (WMEC 911) in the early morning hours while one of the ship's small boats pulls alongside to pick up the crew for a mission during African Partnership Station (APS) 2011. APS aims to strengthen global maritime partnerships through training and other collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa. (U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Etta Smith/RELEASED)