USS Abraham Lincoln Returns After Record 10-Month Deployment
The carrier strike group completed one of the longest deployments since the Cold War, including a record 265 days without a port visit.
The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group returned to its Southern California homeport on Thursday after a 10-month deployment to the Persian Gulf, marking one of the longest naval deployments since the end of the Cold War. The aircraft carrier spent 321 days at sea, with a record 265 of those days completed without a port visit.
The deployment was a challenging one for the nearly 60 fathers aboard who were meeting their newborns for the first time. Sailors described the mission as the hardest they had experienced. The carrier played a significant role in operations related to the war in Iran, launching thousands of aircraft.
Despite reports of deteriorating conditions and dwindling supplies, Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao stated that the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group had eight suicide attempts since the start of its extended deployment. Cao's comments were part of a letter sent to Congress.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the Lincoln before its return to San Diego. He acknowledged extending the crew's orders, citing their effectiveness and the mission's necessity. Hegseth expressed confidence in the crew's ability to deliver on behalf of the American people, a sentiment echoed by President Trump.
Captain Dan Keeler, the commanding officer of the USS Abraham Lincoln, noted the crew's anticipation for homecoming while also preparing to say goodbye to the air wing. Sailors like William Aduloju expressed pride in their contributions, having launched every aircraft from the deck during the deployment.