English: GULF OF ADEN (May 13, 2007) — Damage Controlman Firemen Jeret Parker and Scott Hand of USS Bataan (LHD 5) Repair Division conduct preventative maintenance on the multipurpose amphibious assault ship’s firemain by flushing the system to clear it of debris and foreign objects. The firemain flush ensures the maximum readiness condition of the ship’s primary damage control water supply. The Bataan Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is on deployment conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) which helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complements the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists’ use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tommy E. Lamkin Jr. (RELEASED)