VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Aug. 27, 2020) Brig. Gen.William

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Aug. 27, 2020) Brig. Gen.William Souza (left), deputy commander, Marine Forces Command (MCF) for Mobilization, and Rear Adm. Joseph DiGuardo (right) discuss capabilities during a tour of a Mark VI (MK VI) Patrol Boat during his visit to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) headquarters located at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. DiGuardo will assume command of NECC Sept. 3. Souza’s visit was in support of continued collaboration between MFC and NECC an effort that is critical to building a capable Naval force that is ready to win across the full range of military operations in competition, crisis, and contingency. The MKVI craft provide a core capability to defend designated high value assets throughout the littoral environment by providing port and harbor security, high value asset security, and maritime security operations in the littorals. NECC is responsible for organizing, manning, training, equipping, and sustaining the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF) to execute combat, combat support, and combat service support missions across the full spectrum of naval, joint, and combined operations which enable access from the sea and freedom of action throughout the sea-to-shore and inland operating environments. (U.S. Navy photo by Spencer R. Layne/Released)