US aircraft carrier to dock near Thai beach resort Pattaya after record 250 days at sea
Summary
The USS Abraham Lincoln, a US aircraft carrier, is docking near Pattaya, Thailand, after spending a record 250 days at sea. Nearly 5,000 crew members will get a break in Pattaya, a city known for its nightlife and history as a rest stop for US troops during the Vietnam War.Key Facts
- The USS Abraham Lincoln left San Diego in November, expecting a six-month mission but was extended due to military actions in the Gulf related to US and Israel operations against Iran.
- Crew members faced tough conditions, including reports of food shortages and broken toilets; the US Navy says the crew is well supported.
- Pattaya is famous for its nightlife and sex tourism, but local businesses have been hit by the Iran War and are hoping for increased spending by the US military visitors.
- Thai authorities have restricted US sailors from visiting certain areas, including Soi 6, known for go-go bars and prostitution, which is illegal but widespread.
- Cannabis shops and some sea activities like paragliding and jet-skis are also off-limits for US crew members.
- Shuttle buses are arranged to transport crew from the port to Pattaya, and two hotels are approved for their stay.
- This is likely the largest group of US military personnel to visit Pattaya directly from a war zone since 1975.
- Thailand is a US treaty ally but also has close ties with China; port visits by US Navy ships are common.
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