The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has arrived in Pattaya, Thailand, for a port call following an extensive deployment in the Middle East. The vessel carries more than 5,000 American service members who are expected to visit the coastal city, famous for its beaches and nightlife.
The Lincoln sailed past Singapore over the weekend and is expected to dock at a port in Chonburi province. The destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. will dock at a separate location.
Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet expressed optimism that the port call will provide an economic boost to the area. He noted that the city aims to be seen as an important vacation spot and welcomed the possibility of future visits by U.S. troops for drills or leisure. The visit comes as international tourism has seen a global decline, partly attributed to rising gas prices stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.
To manage the influx of service members, Thai officials have issued warnings to local businesses against overcharging. Enhanced police presence will be deployed in popular areas, including Pattaya Beach and Walking Street. City police Chief Anek Srathongyoo confirmed that security measures have been heightened to prevent incidents and stated that any U.S. service members found to be breaking Thai law will face prosecution.
While some local business owners anticipate increased sales, others are reserving judgment. Somkiet Noree, a souvenir shop owner on Walking Street, acknowledged the upcoming visit but was uncertain about its impact on his business, noting that Pattaya has been quiet recently. A bar employee, Bualuang Ponok, recalled seeing American service members in the past but questioned how many of the 5,000 arriving personnel would visit her establishment.
Mayor Ngampichet also announced that service members will be restricted from certain recreational activities, including parasailing, and from using marijuana, despite its legalization for medical purposes in Thailand in 2022. The USS Abraham Lincoln's deployment in the Middle East was part of U.S. efforts related to Iran. This particular deployment was notable for its duration, exceeding 250 consecutive days at sea, which had previously raised concerns regarding crew well-being and supply shortages.
Following its stop in Thailand, the USS Abraham Lincoln is scheduled to return to the United States. The carrier was relieved in the Middle East by the USS George Washington earlier in August.