231002-N-CU072-1053

MANILA, Philippines (Oct. 2, 2023) – Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, Commander, U. S. Seventh Fleet, gives remarks during the opening ceremony of Sama Sama 2023. MTA Sama Sama is a multilateral exercise including forces from Philippines, the United States, Australia, France, Japan, Canada and the United Kingdom designed to promote regional security cooperation, enhance maritime interoperability, and maintain and strengthen maritime partnerships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Lynch)