The USS Abraham Lincoln will make another port stop before returning to the United States, according to Ashley Rogers, the wife of an officer aboard the aircraft carrier. This has extended a deployment already causing concern about conditions, maintenance, and crew welfare. Rogers shared with Newsweek that her husband informed her the carrier must complete its originally assigned time in the Indo-Pacific region after being diverted to the Middle East. The diversion supported U.S. operations related to the Iran conflict.
Rogers expressed confusion over the necessity of a second port stop. She explained the ship is assigned to the Asian Pacific area and has not fulfilled its required time there due to the diversion to the Middle East. As a result, it cannot return home just yet. Even without the additional port call, the carrier would still have to stay in the region to complete its deployment.
The U.S. Navy has not confirmed the reasoning. While multiple port visits are common for logistical, maintenance, diplomatic, and crew-welfare needs, publicly available Navy information does not suggest ships must formally make up lost days due to diversion. Newsweek requested comment from the U.S. Navy.
The deployment began in November 2025 and was projected to end in early summer. Initially, the carrier was directed to the South China Sea before being rerouted to the Middle East in January. It supported U.S. operations connected to the Iran war until being relieved by the USS George Washington. The Lincoln then headed to Thailand, arriving at Laem Chabang Port after a record-setting period at sea.
Rogers said the idea of further delays was frustrating. The deployment was expected to end in early summer, and it seems unreasonable to her that they must serve additional time. Despite unresolved return dates, reaching Thailand was a relief. It was one of few chances she had to speak with her husband by phone since they briefly stopped in Oman.
Her children also spoke with their father, which they were thrilled about, as it had been since Christmas since they last talked. However, she mentioned they still do not know when he will return. Although she hoped for Thanksgiving, other port stops and travel distances may delay this.
After over 286 days at sea, including 250 without a stop, the Lincoln reached Thailand. A “liberty port call” allowed about 5,000 sailors and Marines ashore, offering them a chance to rest. Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran commended the strike group’s achievements and highlighted the strong partnership between the U.S. and Thailand.
Sailors had a range of activities available during their stay. Some were eager for local cuisine and bars, while others enjoyed hikes and trips. Rogers’ husband planned to visit gardens in Bangkok.
Pattaya prepared for the arrival, and local businesses expected a boost from the influx. Additional police patrols and officials managed public safety. U.S. personnel faced restrictions, with specific streets off-limits and warnings against certain activities.
Photographs of the Lincoln showed wear on its exterior after the long deployment. Rogers noted that its rough appearance was expected given the extended time at sea. There were plans for maintenance, such as repainting.
William Freer, a national security research fellow, commented on the visible wear, stating that the carrier’s condition reflects its endurance. Yet, unmanaged rust can threaten important structures and require shipyard repairs later.
Families of crew members have reported food and hygiene issues, mold, broken equipment, and declining morale. The Navy confirmed one sailor went overboard in August but refuted claims of increased suicidal behaviors. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called reports on the carrier’s conditions misrepresented. President Donald Trump felt the deployment was not long enough, while Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao mentioned that some mental health cases have been treated.
The extended deployment has drawn attention from Congress. Senator Richard Blumenthal raised concerns about service-member well-being and fleet readiness. Representative Don Bacon suggested Congress conduct oversight and have Navy leaders testify.
For Rogers and her family, the ship’s arrival in Thailand reduced some anxiety. However, with another port stop ahead, they remain anxious for a confirmed return date.