Buses transporting USS Abraham Lincoln crew members arrived in the coastal city of Pattaya, Thailand, marking a port call following an extended deployment in the Middle East. The aircraft carrier supported U.S. operations against Iran, setting a new record with over 260 days at sea, raising concerns about crew mental health and food shortages.
Despite worries, the U.S. Navy downplayed issues, and President Trump expressed the belief that the deployment was insufficiently lengthy. The ship had been at sea for a total of 286 days, with an uninterrupted period of 264 days before reaching Chonburi province.
Following their arrival in Thailand, crew members expressed excitement about their visit. Vendors and travel agents awaited them at the Hard Rock Hotel, the designated meeting point for the Lincoln’s personnel. Souvenirs and services were offered to the sailors upon arrival, with many declining while awaiting transportation.
Additional ships from the Lincoln’s strike group were stationed in different Thai ports. A local vendor, A-ngoon Sombat, traveled a considerable distance to sell her products to the visiting crew, hopeful for good business during their stay.
The crew members were seen exploring Pattaya, with some shopping at Terminal 21 mall. A young navigator aboard the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. destroyer mentioned the high morale among the crew, eager to return home after his first U.S. Navy deployment.
Spectators gathered outside Laem Chabang Port to catch a glimpse of the aircraft carrier, snapping photos and engaging in conversations about the impressive vessel. American resident Keith Eldridge described the ship as an “engineering marvel,” appreciating the technology and size of the carrier.
Capt. Dan Keeler, the commanding officer of the Lincoln, hinted at upcoming supply stops before the ship’s return home, without specifying the exact timeline for the strike group’s arrival in the U.S.