On Rappel

Cpl. Gerard Coon with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit's battalion landing team 3/1 rappels from a parked CH-46E Sea Knight aboard USS Makin Island Feb. 10. The Sea Knight is with the unit's aviation combat element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (Reinforced). The unit is currently deployed aboard the amphibious assault ship as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, which is a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force. The group is also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility.