THE TENSION: Images: Combat Camera, Fri. 30 June

AL ASAD, Iraq - A humvee cruises up a dusty slope during a perimeter patrol June 21. Being the primary source of transportation for the Marines of the Perimeter Patrol Teams with 2nd Platoon, E Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Wing Support Group 37 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, the humvee helps them accomplish their responsibilities of keeping the surrounding areas around Al Asad secure and free of any threats. Photo by: Lance Cpl. James B. Hoke

AL ASAD, Iraq - A UH-60 Blackhawk crew chief observes his helicopter for any problems that may stop them from completing their mission at Al Asad, Iraq, June 15. The soldier is with 82nd Medical Company, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Their mission is to provide aerial medical support to all personnel in the Western Al Anbar Province of Iraq. Photo by: Staff Sgt. Chad McMeen

Persian Gulf (June 29, 2006) - A Sailor assigned to the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Two Three (VAW-123) cleans the wings of an E-2C Hawkeye on the flight deck aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike group is currently deployed as part of a routine rotation of U.S. maritime forces in support of the global war on terrorism and conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the region. MSO helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Milosz Reterski (RELEASED)

Newport News, Va. (June 30, 2006) - Artist Rendering - A conceptual rendering of CVN 78, the first of a new generation carrier design, CVN 21, for the US Navy, underway at Northrop Grumman Newport News. Construction is slated to begin in 2007. Innovations for the next-generation aircraft carrier include an enhanced flight deck with increased sortie rates, improved weapons movement, a redesigned island, a new nuclear power plant and allowance for future technologies and reduced manning. U.S. Navy Illustration courtesy Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipbuilding (RELEASED)