The USS Abraham Lincoln, the United States aircraft carrier that has been in service for nearly a year, will arrive in San Diego on Thursday afternoon. This return marks the end of one of the most intense and impactful military missions of the modern era, which faced serious challenges including resource shortages and declining morale and mental health among the crew.
Challenges During the Mission
The ship left San Diego last November and initially headed toward the Pacific Ocean, but was redirected to the Middle East following the outbreak of the U.S. and Israel's conflict with Iran in late February. The USS Abraham Lincoln remained in the region until late August, before returning home with the arrival of the USS George Washington.
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In early August, reports emerged about the poor living conditions aboard the ship, which included shortages of resources and water, plumbing issues, and declining morale and mental health among approximately 5,000 personnel. Two reputable military newspapers also reported that two sailors attempted suicide, raising significant concerns among families and military experts.
Response from Officials and Families
These reports sparked outrage among Democrats, while senior officials in the Trump administration vehemently denied them. U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper called the reports "completely distorted," and when reporters asked Donald Trump if he thought the mission had gone on too long, he replied: "No, not at all." This comment angered some military families.
Adam Brack Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, stated in a statement that of the 11 active aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy, the USS Abraham Lincoln has "the fewest cases related to mental health," but added that "this does not mean everything is completely fine."
Two weeks ago, Hung Kao, the acting Secretary of the Navy, acknowledged that eight service members of the Lincoln and its strike group had attempted to take their own lives.
Sarah Jacobs, a Democratic representative from California who visited the USS Abraham Lincoln in late September, expressed that while she is "happy about the return of the USS Abraham Lincoln to San Diego," she is calling for an audit regarding the poor conditions aboard the ship. She emphasized that "we must prevent such crises from recurring and ultimately end the war with Iran so that all military personnel can return home."
On Wednesday, Esper visited the Lincoln and praised the crew. He acknowledged that their mission had not been easy and said: "When you see your families tomorrow, please thank them on my behalf and the President's." He also announced that members of the ship would be recognized for their "extraordinary bravery in action against armed enemies."
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