Veterans and health experts raise concerns over conditions on USS Abraham Lincoln after nine-month deployment
U.S. Navy veterans and military health specialists say the carrier USS Abraham Lincoln’s extended deployment has led to supply shortages, morale issues and heightened mental-health strain among its crew, prompting calls for Pentagon answers.
The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln has been at sea for more than 250 consecutive days after being redirected from a Pacific mission to the Middle East following the outbreak of the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. During this period, reports have surfaced of water and plumbing shortages, limited fresh-food options and attempts by sailors to jump overboard, sparking criticism from veterans, health experts and several Democratic lawmakers.
The Navy Times and Stars and Stripes detailed the supply problems and noted a decline in morale and mental-health indicators among the roughly 5,000 crew members. In response, a Navy spokesperson told the Guardian that the service is aware of the strain extended deployments place on personnel and families, and that “the health and wellbeing of every Lincoln sailor is a priority.” The official added that no increase in reported suicidal ideation or attempts has been identified and that religious, medical and mental-health professionals are available on board.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth countered claims that conditions have been “completely misrepresented,” stating that the department ensures each ship and crew receives necessary support. Retired Navy captain Armen Kurdian, who served on the Lincoln in 2005, described the carrier as a “giant floating city” and acknowledged that routine maintenance issues can affect morale, especially when the ship has been at sea for an extended period without a port visit.
Retired Vice-Admiral Robert Murrett said a typical carrier deployment lasts about six months and usually includes port calls that allow sailors to rest, noting that the Lincoln has not had such opportunities since leaving San Diego. Former Rear Admiral Nancy Lacore, who served in the same region, recalled the psychological impact of having a planned home-port date changed repeatedly.
Behavioral scientist Terri Tanielian warned that prolonged separations and uncertainty about deployment length increase mental strain for service members and families, emphasizing the need for adequate sleep, exercise and reset opportunities in addition to psychological services.
The reports have led to calls for the Pentagon to clarify the carrier’s status, and the Wall Street Journal has indicated that the Navy may replace the Lincoln with the USS George Washington in the near future.