The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier docked in Laem Chabang, Thailand, on Wednesday, concluding a record 286-day deployment in the Middle East. The ship will remain in port for several days before returning to its home base in San Diego. This visit marks the carrier's first full port stop since its deployment began in November 2025.
Family members of some crew members spoke out amid the arrival, expressing relief but also sharing concerns that had surfaced during the extended mission. Reports emerged during the deployment regarding alleged food shortages, plumbing issues, and declining mental health among the approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines aboard.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Lincoln faced repeated missile and drone attacks during its time at sea. However, the Navy has dismissed concerns about the conditions aboard the vessel, with President Donald Trump suggesting the deployment was "not nearly long enough." Hegseth characterized reports of poor conditions as "completely misrepresented."
Upon its arrival in Thailand, the Lincoln's hull appeared visibly rusted from prolonged exposure to the elements. Rear Adm. Robert E. Loughran, commander of Carrier Strike Group 3, acknowledged the stop as a "well-deserved opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to rest and recharge."
Kelly Lattig, father of airman Trayoni Daniels, expressed frustration with the administration's messaging regarding the lengthy deployment. "Imagine if you're Tray or any of the other 5,000 kids, and the president comes on and says that you haven't been on the ship nearly long enough," Lattig said. "It's just terrible messaging, and frustrating and makes America look weak and stupid."
Kendra Carver, Daniels' mother, shared that she had not been able to call her son since his deployment began. She mentioned that her son had relayed issues with supplies reaching the ship via Instagram messages in April but did not indicate he was personally impacted. Her primary concern remains "just knowing when he's going to get back."
Cristi McGarey, another mother of a sailor aboard the Lincoln, conveyed her relief upon hearing of the port stop. She also voiced worries about the reported conditions, stating, "To have the people in power neglect them to take care of them, when they are running out of food that is unacceptable."
The USS George Washington has since replaced the Lincoln in the Middle East, operating in the region as of August 20. The Lincoln crew is expected to spend some downtime in Pattaya, Thailand, before heading back to San Diego.