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Is Pete Hegseth Checking the USS Abraham Lincoln’s Testosterone?

Is Pete Hegseth Checking the USS Abraham Lincoln’s Testosterone?

Summary

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier’s crew has faced over eight months at sea without rest amid tensions with Iran, causing fatigue, low morale, and mental health concerns. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has introduced a program for mandatory testosterone screening and other measures to improve military readiness, but experts and officials note that basic needs and mental health support must be addressed first.

Key Facts

  • The USS Abraham Lincoln crew has been at sea for more than 260 consecutive days due to ongoing conflict with Iran.
  • Sailors reported exhaustion, poor morale, mental health worries, and shortages of hygiene products and broken plumbing.
  • The USS George Washington is set to replace the Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East.
  • Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered mandatory testosterone tests for military personnel starting August 15 as part of a readiness program.
  • Hegseth’s program aims to improve troop performance using data, wearable tech, and health optimization methods.
  • Senator Richard Blumenthal sent a letter demanding answers on how the Pentagon is addressing fatigue, morale, and mental health among the crew.
  • A 2025 study found most sailors struggle with rest, lack of health care access, and insufficient personnel while at sea.
  • The Department of Defense reported over half a million active service members were diagnosed with mental health issues between 2020 and 2024.
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