180207-N-TP832-007 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Feb. 7, 2018)

180207-N-TP832-007 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Feb. 7, 2018) Family members observe as the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) departs Naval Station Mayport for a scheduled six-month deployment. The Iwo Jima Amphibious Assault Ready Group and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit are deploying to conduct maritime security operations, crisis response and theater security cooperation, while also providing a forward naval presence in Europe and the Middle East. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Lopez/Released)