Eight sailors attempted suicide

Eight Navy members aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln attempted suicide during an extended deployment, according to a letter from acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

286 days at sea without stopping

The USS Abraham Lincoln remained at sea for 286 days without a port call while supporting the U.S. war with Iran. A typical deployment lasts six to seven months with regular stops for supplies.

Deployment was extended unexpectedly

The Lincoln left San Diego in November with a planned May return date, but the deployment was extended after the war began in February. The ship is now returning to San Diego after stops in Thailand and Guam.

Families reported food shortages

Relatives of sailors raised concerns about food shortages, low morale, and the extended time at sea wreaking havoc on mental health. Some military officials have dismissed these concerns as old news that was resolved months ago.

“wreaking havoc on sailors' mental health”

Two sailors jumped overboard

Two sailors jumped overboard while the Lincoln was in the Middle East. The other six suicide attempts were not detailed in the Navy's letter to Senator Gillibrand.

Navy says support systems are in place

The Navy says the Lincoln has five chaplains, a clinical psychologist, a clinical social worker, and behavioral health technicians available to support the 7,500 service members aboard.

“We take every service member's well-being seriously”

Senator calls conditions serious

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said the conditions on the ship were serious and deteriorating, contrasting with President Trump's earlier statement that the deployment was not nearly long enough.

“serious and deteriorating”