A landing craft air cushion (LCAC), assigned to Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7, transports elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)to Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48). Ashland is part of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and is conducting joint force amphibious operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Commander Amphibious Squadron Eleven. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Raymond D. Diaz III/Released)