210616-N-NO748-1048 GULF OF ADEN (June 16, 2021) Sailors assigned to Embarked Security Intelligence Team 11, deployed with Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56 and Merchant Mariners from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201), approach a vessel in distress during rescue operations in the Gulf of Aden, June 16. Patuxent is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo)