Family of USS Abraham Lincoln sailor raises concerns over nine-month deployment

The USS Abraham Lincoln has been underway for nine months, exceeding the typical six-month deployment period for aircraft carriers. During that time, its combat aircraft have flown more than 10,000 sorties, and the crew of roughly 5,000 sailors and Marines has been tasked with defending against Iranian missiles and drones.

Jefferson Kelley, whose son Jackson is on his first deployment aboard the carrier, said he is concerned about the length of the tour and the ship's age, noting that "they should not be deployed this long" and that the vessel requires extensive maintenance.

Senator Richard Blumenthal has asked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for information after reports of supply shortages, water contamination, plumbing problems and mental-health strain surfaced. The Navy and U.S. Central Command have disputed claims of increased suicidal ideation, stating no deaths have occurred and that the incident on Aug. 3 involving a sailor who fell overboard is under investigation.

In response, the Navy said crew members have access to clean water, air conditioning and nutritious meals, and highlighted the carrier's high reenlistment rate and resilience after more than 260 days at sea. It also noted that counselors, chaplains and medical staff are available to support personnel.

Kelley expressed distrust of official statements and said he has appealed directly to Navy officials, including acting secretary Hung Cao, to consider bringing his son home. He added that he would travel to the carrier himself if it meant reuniting his son with his family.