Sailors man the rails as U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) passes Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force JDS Kurobe (ATS 4202) while the ship pulls into Kure, Japan for a port visit. Blue Ridge port visits represent an important opportunity to promote peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, demonstrate commitment to regional partners and foster growing relationships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mel Orr/Released)