Hegseth tells USS Lincoln sailors controversial deployment ‘wasn’t easy’
Summary
The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier set a Navy record by staying at sea for over 260 days without a break, supporting US military operations in the Middle East during the war on Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the crew’s efforts and announced they will receive a presidential unit citation, while some lawmakers and experts raised concerns about crew shortages and mental health issues during the deployment.Key Facts
- The USS Abraham Lincoln left San Diego in November 2025 and stayed at sea for over 260 days without a port visit.
- The deployment was extended due to the US and Israel’s war on Iran, with the carrier redirected to the Middle East.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged the deployment was tough but praised the sailors’ work and awarded the presidential unit citation.
- Reports emerged about food and supply shortages and mental health problems among the crew, including two suicide attempts.
- President Donald Trump supported the long deployment, saying it was “not nearly long enough.”
- Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao confirmed eight service members from the Lincoln’s group attempted suicide during the mission.
- Some Democratic lawmakers criticized the administration for a lack of accountability and called for better mental health protections for sailors.
- The USS Abraham Lincoln was relieved by the USS George Washington in August and is now returning to San Diego.
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