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NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN (May 3, 2021) – A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor 164 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to take off from the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) in support of Northern Edge 2021. Approximately 15,000 U.S. service members are participating in a joint training exercise hosted by U.S. Pacific Air Forces May 3-14, 2021, on and above the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, the Gulf of Alaska, and temporary maritime activities area. NE21 is one in a series of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command exercises designed to sharpen the joint forces’ skills; to practice tactics, techniques, and procedures; to improve command, control and communication relationships; and to develop cooperative plans and programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nadia Lund)