.... STORY CAPTION: DOD in Photos: 2020 This collection showcases the work of U.S. military photographers in 2020, when U.S. service members continued to conduct around-the-clock training and operations worldwide to ensure the nation's security, even while responding to the coronavirus pandemic. 200223-N-LZ839-1381 ARABIAN GULF (Feb. 23, 2020) Sailors assigned to the Dragon Whales of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 participate in a search-and-rescue swimmer exercise, Feb. 23, 2020. HSC-28 is embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), the flagship for the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and, with embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Darren Newell/Released) Where: ARABIAN GULF When: 23 Feb 2020 Credit: DOD//Cover-Images.com **Editorial Use Only**