Cmdr. Corey Kerns, commanding officer of USCGC Spencer (WMEC 905), is welcomed by the Togolese Navy in Lomé, Togo, Jan. 25, 2023. Spencer is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of responsibility, employed by the U.S. Sixth Fleet, to carry out joint training, exercises, and maritime security operations alongside African partners in support of U.S. interests abroad to foster regional partnerships, promote regional stability, and strengthen international maritime governance. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Third Class Mikaela McGee)