211208-N-PH222-1212

DILI, Timor-Leste (Dec. 8, 2021) Sailors aboard Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) host a reception in the hangar bay during a scheduled port visit to Dili, Timor-Leste. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)