Hegseth Praises USS Abraham Lincoln Crew, Awards Presidential Unit Citation

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth offered a commendation to the crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln upon their return to San Diego after a deployment of approximately 300 days. Hegseth acknowledged the crew's resilience through challenging missions, including operations against Iran, and recognized the mental health struggles some sailors experienced during their extended time at sea.

"I realize I’m the only thing standing between you and home," Hegseth told the assembled crew. "I’m the one who signed that orders book twice to extend you…[I] plead guilty because of the incredible effectiveness that you showcased on the battlefield and the necessity."

He lauded their efforts, stating, "I draw inspiration from the mission that you executed so successfully. You have changed the arc of history, ensuring that crazy people, theocrats, never get a nuclear weapon."

To honor their service, Hegseth announced the USS Abraham Lincoln was being awarded a Presidential Unit Citation, one of the highest accolades a U.S. military unit can receive.

During its record-long deployment, the crew of roughly 5,000 sailors reportedly faced hardships, including mental health challenges due to prolonged separation from families and issues with supply shortages. Reports indicated that some sailors had attempted to jump overboard amidst these difficult conditions. The Pentagon has stated lessons were learned from the Lincoln's deployment, with subsequent ships being better stocked and equipped with improved amenities, including enhanced communication systems for sailors to connect with loved ones.

Hegseth attributed the supply chain disruptions to Iranian attacks targeting infrastructure, particularly a base in Bahrain. He also addressed media reports that he claimed sought to portray the USS Abraham Lincoln as a symbol of dysfunction or a failed mission.

"There were a few folks in the media who tried to turn the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln into some sort of a symbol, a symbol of dysfunction, or a symbol of low morale, or a symbol of a failed mission," he said. "I know it’s the exact opposite. Instead, what makes the US military, the US Navy, and all these sailors different is that you adapt and that you’re resilient and you overcome. You finish the mission nonetheless."

The USS Abraham Lincoln was relieved by the USS George Washington in August. During its mission in the Middle East, supporting Operation Epic Fury and the blockade of Iran, the carrier strike group conducted 10,000 sorties and nearly 4,000 combat sorties, dropping 1.5 million pounds of ordnance. Hegseth noted the operation's success, highlighting the absence of aircraft mishaps.

In a moment during his speech, Hegseth acknowledged a minor misstatement regarding combat flight operations hours, stating, "Excuse me, I’ll do two push-ups," before performing the exercise. He concluded by emphasizing the pride the American public and media should feel for the sailors' achievements and dedication.

Earlier in the day, Hegseth participated in physical activities with troops in San Diego. The USS Theodore Roosevelt recently departed San Diego and is expected to join two other aircraft carriers already in the Middle East.