PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 14, 2011) Marines embark a CH-46E Sea Stallion helicopter, assigned to the Red Dragons of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268 Reinforced, aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). Makin Island is on its maiden deployment conducting operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of the Navy's Maritime Strategy. Makin Island is the Navy's newest amphibious assault ship and the only U.S. Navy ship with a hybrid electric propulsion system. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alan Gragg)