Key facts
- The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier has left the Middle East after a nine-month deployment.
- The carrier passed Singapore early Sunday and is en route to San Diego.
- A port visit to Thailand is scheduled for rest and recovery before the ship reaches its home base.
- Concerns about crew mental health and supply shortages were reported during the deployment.
- Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao addressed concerns, stating no lives were lost and meals were not missed, though adjustments were made.
- Admiral Daryl Caudle explained that initial replenishment challenges involved non-essential items like hygiene products and drinks.
The U.S. aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has departed the Middle East after a demanding nine-month deployment, passing Singapore early Sunday as it heads home to San Diego. The vessel supported U.S. military operations against Iran, including a maritime blockade, and experienced a record-setting uninterrupted time at sea of over 250 days.
Concerns had been raised regarding the crew's mental health and shortages of supplies such as food and hygiene products during the extended deployment. Sailors and their families reported issues including mail disruptions and limited calls home due to operational threats. The ship's departure from the Arabian Sea follows the arrival of the USS George Washington to relieve it.
Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao stated that a small number of mental health cases were treated without loss of life and that no meals were missed, though meal plans were adjusted when fresh supplies were unavailable. Admiral Daryl Caudle clarified that initial replenishment challenges involved items like hygiene products and soda, which were part of a learning curve in the process.
The Lincoln is expected to make a port visit in Thailand for rest and recovery before returning to its U.S. base. This stop is intended to provide the crew a chance to relax ashore. The Navy is enforcing a reimposed blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.