A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers alongside USS Makin

A CH-53E Super Stallion hovers alongside USS Makin Island (LHD 8) here Jan. 19 to cast reconnaissance Marines into the ocean. The helicopter is flown by pilots of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (Reinforced), the aviation combat element for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The unit is currently deployed aboard the amphibious assault ship as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, which is a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force. The group is also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility.