250519-N-WM182-1020

250519-N-WM182-1020 WELLINGTON, New Zealand (May 19, 2025) U.S. 7th Fleet Commander Vice Adm. Fred Kacher (right) and Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and Engagements Capt. Jennifer Barnes meet with U.S. Embassy New Zealand Chargé d'affaires Mr. David Gehrenbeck (left) aboard the 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) during a scheduled port visit in Wellington, May 19, 2025. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Caitlin Flynn)