MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Oct. 12, 2009) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced) of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU), prepares to land aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during Exercise Bright Star 2009. Bright Star is a biennial, multinational exercise designed to improve readiness, interoperability, and strengthen the military and professional relationships among U.S., Egyptian and participating forces. Bright Star is conducted by U.S. Central Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Steinhour/Released)
