USS Abraham Lincoln sailors party in Pattaya
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The gist
USS Abraham Lincoln sailors hit Pattaya after 286 days at sea.
The port call marks first shore leave since November amid Iran war.
Background
The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier arrived in Thailand on September 2, 2026, after a record-setting deployment of 286 days at sea, including extended service in the Middle East during the US war with Iran. The crew faced reported living condition issues, food shortages, and mental health concerns. Pattaya, a resort city known for nightlife, is hosting about 5,000 sailors and Marines for rest and relaxation before they return to San Diego.
How it unfolded
- Nov 2025The carrier left San Diego for a deployment initially expected to last about seven months.
- Jan 2026The ship was rerouted from the South China Sea to the Middle East in support of the US war against Iran, which started the following month.
- Sep 1, 2026Pattaya police began cracking down on prostitution ahead of the sailors' arrival, detaining dozens of people.
- Sep 2, 2026The USS Abraham Lincoln docked at Laem Chabang Port near Pattaya, and thousands of sailors began shore leave.
- Sep 3, 2026Two sailors were sent back to the ship after a drunken brawl in Pattaya.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo said 'We are doing our best, but it is difficult' regarding curbing prostitution.
- Sailors
- Sailor Lester said 'I ate to my heart's content. Me and Thai food might be best friends after this.'
- Sailors
- One unnamed serviceman hinted at the toll: 'Some people adapt to it but not everyone.'
- Local Business
- Mayor Poramet Ngampichet hoped the visit would boost the local economy, estimating each sailor could spend $100-150 per day.
Still unverified
Reports of deteriorating living conditions and mental health issues onboard, including attempted suicides, were disputed by the ship's captain, who said they were largely exaggerated.