Machinist Mate Fireman Apprentice Christopher Aho stirs a feed water hardness sample in the oil lab aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during Exercise Bold Alligator. 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 3rd Class Corbin J. Shea)