USS Abraham Lincoln crew arrives in Thailand after record deployment

The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in Thailand in September 2026 after more than 270 days at sea, one of the longest deployments in modern US naval history. The aircraft carrier left California in November 2025 and was sent to the Middle East to support military operations against Iran. About 5,000 sailors and marines were on board. Reports from the deployment described serious problems, including mental health crises, attempted suicides, and shortages of food and basic supplies. Thai authorities sent around 600 officials to help with security during the visit. Sailors will leave the ship in small groups of about 50. Pattaya has been a rest destination for US military personnel since the Vietnam War. The Lincoln will return to the United States after the port visit.