USS Essex conducts replenishment-at-sea with USNS Patuxentt in Pacific Ocean

Gunner Mate 2nd Class Matthew Beck, assigned to Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), prepares to shoot a messenger line to Henry J. Kaiser-class underway replenishment oiler USNS Patuxent (T-AO-201), during a replenishment-at-sea in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 5, 2026. Essex is currently underway conducting routine operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ivan A. Garcia)