USS Abraham Lincoln sailors tried to jump overboard amid extended deployment - reports
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- The USS Abraham Lincoln is facing a severe mental health crisis as its 5,000 sailors endure a record 250-day deployment at sea amid the US-Iran conflict, with multiple suicide attempts reported onboard.
- Families of crew members have expressed deep concerns about poor living conditions, including moldy showers, broken toilets, and rationed food, during an emotional town hall meeting with navy leadership.
- Congressional members Mike Levin and Jason Crow have publicly criticized the Navy for inadequate support and deteriorating conditions, highlighting the growing strain on service members and their families.
- The Navy acknowledges the extended deployment's strain but denies an increase in suicide attempts, emphasizing available mental health resources and ongoing efforts to maintain basic living standards.
- Studies reveal that nearly half of deployed sailors feel they lack sufficient stress-coping support, underscoring the urgent need to improve healthcare access and mental health services on naval vessels.
