An MV-22 Osprey approaches ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8).

PACIFIC OCEAN (Mar. 01, 2011) An MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 approaches the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). This is the first time an Osprey has conducted flight operations on a west coast amphibious assault ship since being introduced to the fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist John Lill) File# 110301-N-KD852-038