On October 8, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington (reporters Huang Qiang and Xu Jianmei) that the U.S. Central Command announced on social media that the USS Lincoln aircraft carrier returned to its home port in San Diego, California, on the same day after completing its mission in the Middle East.
The report stated that over 5,000 Navy personnel and Marines executed thousands of combat flight missions during this deployment, covering more than 90,000 miles (approximately 145,000 kilometers).
According to information released by the Pentagon, the USS Lincoln's deployment lasted a "record-breaking 321 days," with 264 consecutive days at sea without docking at any port. This deployment surpassed the previous record of 206 consecutive days set by the USS Eisenhower in 2020.
The USS Lincoln began its scheduled deployment last November, was redirected to the Middle East in January of this year, and participated in U.S. military operations against Iran and maritime blockades. Before returning, it was reported that its sailors faced living conditions and mental health issues due to the high operational tempo and prolonged deployment, with several individuals reportedly experiencing mental breakdowns and attempting to jump overboard.
USS Abraham Lincoln returned to San Diego on October 8, 2023, after a record-setting 321-day deployment. The aircraft carrier completed over 5000 combat flight operations and traveled more than 90,000 miles. During the deployment, crew members experienced significant mental health issues due to the extended operational tempo and conditions.
- USS Abraham Lincoln returned to San Diego after a 321-day deployment.
- The deployment included over 5000 Navy personnel and Marines.
- The carrier conducted thousands of combat flight operations during its mission.
- The deployment set a record for continuous at-sea operations.
- Crew members faced mental health challenges due to the prolonged deployment.