Sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have taken a break from their military duties to unwind on the beaches and enjoy local attractions in Thailand. This comes after a record nine-month deployment at sea, during which the crew was engaged in operations related to the conflict with Iran.
Parents of sailors expressed relief as their loved ones finally stepped onto solid ground. Christi McGarey conveyed her relief to CBS News, stating, “I’m certain that his feet have touched the ground, and I’m really so relieved.” Her son, Marshall Ludwig, serves on the ship.
During the lengthy deployment, the USS Abraham Lincoln was at sea for a consecutive stretch not previously encountered in its commissioning history. Nearly 5,000 sailors, Marines, and crew participated in operations over six months, facing reports of deteriorating ship conditions due to targeted attacks on U.S. bases by Iranian strikes. Concerns also arose regarding the impact on the crew’s mental health.
CBS News reached out to sailors arriving in Laem Chabang for comments on shipboard conditions. While unwilling to discuss details, the sailors expressed happiness to be on land in Thailand.
I’m certain that his feet have touched the ground, and I’m really so relieved.
According to McGarey, her son viewed some concerns as “overblown.” She stated that although her son acknowledged an incident where a sailor jumped overboard, he was aware of no further details.
In August, the Navy investigated an incident involving a sailor falling overboard. The sailor received subsequent care after being rescued. Circumstances surrounding the fall remain under investigation.
Families expressed concerns about extended deployments. “They should not be deployed this long,” Jefferson Kelley, whose son is on his first deployment, told CBS News. He described challenges faced by older ships requiring continuous maintenance.
Communication was limited for sailors involved in the U.S. blockade in Iranian waters. McGarey mentioned, “They just set off on regular deployment, no idea that a war would break out.” She noted her son’s renewed sense of joy after arriving in Thailand.
The USS George Washington has replaced the USS Lincoln in the Middle East. The USS Lincoln will soon return to its home port in San Diego after a short stay in Thailand.