PHILIPPINE SEA (Dec. 7, 2010) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Skye Kelley, left, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Apprentice Larz Rasmussen prepare to tie down a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force SH-60K Sea Hawk helicopter while conducting deck landing qualifications aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in exercise Keen Sword, a joint bilateral exercise designed to strengthen Japan-U.S. military operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg
