USS Abraham Lincoln to visit port in Thailand after more than 250 days at sea

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is scheduled to make a port visit in Thailand next week, the Thai navy announced, following more than 250 consecutive days at sea. The stop will allow crew members to rest and resupply before the carrier continues its return to the United States.

A Thai navy spokesperson described the visit as routine, intended to provide personnel with rest and logistical support. No military exercises are planned during the stop. The navy previously stated that three ships from a U.S. carrier strike group would make a brief port call in eastern Thailand but did not specify the vessels or exact date.

The USS Abraham Lincoln, which departed the Middle East after being relieved by the USS George Washington, is en route to its home port in San Diego. Its extended deployment has drawn attention amid reports of challenging conditions onboard, including supply shortages, plumbing issues, and low morale among the approximately 5,000 crew members.

Recent media reports have highlighted concerns from family members of sailors, including accounts of mental health struggles and incidents of sailors attempting to jump overboard. One sailor, who reportedly jumped overboard and has since returned to the U.S., now faces disciplinary action. According to charging documents obtained by MS Now, the sailor is accused of malingering and absence without leave under military law.

The sailor, 19, had requested paternity leave after the birth of his daughter in February but was denied. His wife told MS Now that he is now subject to non-judicial punishment, a process typically used for minor infractions without a court-martial. The Navy has not commented on the specific case but issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to sailors' well-being.

"The Navy is fully committed to the health and wellbeing of every Sailor," a Navy official told MS Now. "We strive to foster environments that support mental health by removing barriers to seeking help, increasing awareness of resources, and taking appropriate action when someone is in need. Mental health resources are available to our Sailors 24/7, and asking for help is a sign of strength."

The USS Abraham Lincoln left San Diego on November 21 for the Pacific but was redirected to the Middle East. Since then, it has operated continuously at sea without a significant port visit. Reports of conditions onboard have led several Democratic lawmakers to seek answers from the Pentagon regarding the welfare of the crew. The Navy has not responded to requests for comment on the broader concerns.