The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) pulls alongside the afloat forward staging base (interim) USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) to conduct a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) in the Persian Gulf. San Antonio is deployed as part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU), is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lacordrick Wilson/Released)