AAV's from the USS Iwo Jima on exercise. Photos by Petty Officer 3rd Class Z. Ecklund

An amphibious assault vehicle from 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion approaches the well deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima . AAVs are entering and deploying from the ship's well deck as part of a joint training exercise.

An amphibious assault vehicle from 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion departs the well deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima bound for Camp Lejeune, N.C. The AAVs are deploying from the ship's well deck as part of a joint training exercise.

A landing craft air cushion departs the well deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima before crossing Onslow Bay to its final destination of Camp Lejeune, N.C. Iwo Jima is en route to Norfolk, Va., after participating in Fleet Week Port Everglades 2011.

An amphibious assault vehicle from 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion departs the well deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima. AAVs are entering and deploying from the ship's well deck as part of a joint training exercise.