United States - February 22, 2025 ATLANTIC OCEAN - A tense and critical operation unfolded on the high seas as sailors aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) executed a breathtaking fuel-at-sea evolution alongside the USS Porter (DDG 78) on February 22. This high-stakes maneuver, known as a FAS event, wasn’t just a routine refueling—it marked the dramatic culmination of the Iwo Jima’s basic phase requirements, propelling the mighty vessel into the next chapter of its pre-deployment journey. As the flagship of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, the USS Iwo Jima stands as a towering symbol of American might, ready to deter aggression and project power across the globe. With this final milestone achieved, the ship and its integrated Marine Corps team are now poised to tackle contingency missions, safeguarding U.S. strategic interests with unyielding resolve. The Atlantic waters bore witness to a pivotal moment, one that underscores the Navy’s relentless readiness to dominate the seas and beyond.