US sailors take a break in Thailand
Sep 03, 2026
Bangkok [Thailand], September 3: After more than 200 days at sea and reports of serious problems on board, the US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln arrived in Thailand on Wednesday. The roughly 5,000 crew members have been on a lengthy combat deployment that has drawn attention over alleged supply shortages and complaints from sailors, marines and their families. The ship docked at Laem Chabang Port, around 20 kilometres from the tourist hotspot of Pattaya.
The nuclear-powered carrier departed San Diego in November 2025, initially for a deployment in the Pacific. It was later redeployed to the Middle East following the outbreak of war with Iran. While voyages lasting several months are common for US aircraft carriers, such a long period without a regular port call is unusual. Reports of problems with the water supply, blocked toilets and psychological strain on the crew as a result of various grievances have made headlines. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune
