LAEM CHABANG, Thailand, Sept 2 – The U.S. Navy aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln docked in eastern Thailand on Wednesday after spending 286 days at sea. This deployment included a long mission in the Middle East, raising concerns about mental health and conditions aboard the ship.
The nuclear-powered Lincoln, which carries around 5,000 personnel, took part in the U.S. naval blockade and combat operations against Iran. According to Democratic lawmakers, this deployment set a modern record for the longest period at sea.
Arriving with other U.S. naval vessels, the Lincoln reached Thailand, the only U.S. treaty ally in mainland Southeast Asia, for a five-day rest and recuperation visit.
By afternoon, groups of sailors and Marines in civilian clothes began arriving at a hotel in Pattaya, a resort city about 150 km (93 miles) southeast of Bangkok. Many were smiling and waving.
HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENTS
Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran, commander of Carrier Strike Group 3, stated, “Our arrival in Laem Chabang provides a well-deserved opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to rest and recharge. What this strike group has accomplished is truly historic. I couldn’t be prouder of the professionalism and expertise shown by everyone on the team during operations.”
The Lincoln was deployed last November. While naval deployments usually last six to nine months, they can be extended during conflicts.
Shakeira Fairfax traveled from New Jersey to meet her 25-year-old daughter, Jade, who serves on the Lincoln. Fairfax shared that during the long deployment, especially after the Iran war started, there were times when morale was low and communication was limited, leading her to worry about her daughter's safety.
“There was a period of silence. It was an uncertain and scary time. It was difficult, but she has a support system,” she explained to reporters.
Eastern Thailand has a history of U.S. Navy port visits dating back to the Vietnam War when Pattaya was a quiet beach town near a naval base. Thousands of U.S. personnel were stationed in the area during that time.
Thailand became a U.S. treaty ally in 1954 and was designated as a major non-NATO ally in 2003. The two countries maintain strong military ties and conduct joint exercises each year.
ECONOMIC BOOST
The port visit may provide a much-needed economic boost for Pattaya, which is also known for its sex tourism industry.
Mayor Poramase Ngampiches met with the Lincoln’s commander and noted that U.S. officials have imposed restrictions on crew activities during their stay, including limitations on water sports and visits to certain entertainment areas after dark to avoid negative perceptions.
In response, police will increase patrols around Pattaya’s main beachfront and nightlife areas following recent raids that led to the arrest of 40 to 50 people for suspected prostitution.
Even though the sex industry is illegal in Thailand, it operates openly in tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya despite occasional crackdowns.
As anticipation built up before the Lincoln’s arrival, street vendors near Pattaya’s famous “Walking Street” were looking forward to increased sales.
“It’s been so quiet lately,” remarked clothes seller Kadsalin Ketpa, 43. “I hope their arrival raises my sales.”
Food vendor Saroch, 45, agreed that visits by the U.S. military are beneficial for business. “They’re here for drinks, having fun, and letting loose,” he said.