U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Emilio Perez, an CH-53E flight line mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, waits as the CH-53E Super Stallions prepare to take off from Antonio Bautista Air Base in support of Marine Aviation Support Activity (MASA) 23 events in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, July 12, 2023. MASA is a bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Marine Corps, aimed at enhancing interoperability and coordination focused on aviation-related capabilities. During MASA 23, Filipino and U.S. Marines conduct different training evolutions, including live-fire, air assaults, and subject matter expert exchanges across aviation, ground, and logistics capabilities. Perez is a Los Angeles native. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sean A. Potter)