US Carrier Seeks Relief amid 250‑Day Hardship Claims
Millions of personnel who have remained aboard US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln for more than 250 days are contending with food shortages, broken plumbing and chronic fatigue, raising alarms in Washington and from the front line.
The carrier left California on 9 November, entered the South China Sea in December and then moved to the Middle East in February ahead of potential conflict with Iran. The deployment was expected to end in May, but it has been routinely extended with no announced return date.
Senator Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Armed Services Committee, wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighting "shortages of supplies, contaminated water, broken plumbing, deteriorating mental health, deck safety concerns and lost mail packets for months." Hegseth has denied the reports, calling them “completely misrepresented.”
Southeast Asia‑sourced media reported a sailor recovered after falling overboard and a series of family messages describing 65‑lb weight loss, an inability to clean laundry or eat fresh food, and ongoing noise from engines and aircraft taking off. Several families reported that their relatives considered jumping or became suicidal. Senator Ruben Gallego urged an open congressional visit to investigate the situation.
Navy officials have stressed that “mission‐critical supplies” are prioritized, stating that food, hygiene items and mail are delivered. A spokesperson said that water, air conditioning and meal quality are “continuous.” Yet the carrier’s crew report missing soap, toothpaste, and only half a cup of rice with tortillas for a full meal.
The military remembers that other carriers have provided entertainment—bingo, art sessions and singing contests—to relieve extended postings. Recent research indicates that sailors on ships experience the highest rates of serious psychological distress, driven by noise, high duty cycles and limited sleep.
For those affected, the BBC Action Line and international crisis helplines provide assistance. The US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available at 988.
Reporting by Cai Pigliucci.
