The USS Abraham Lincoln returns to San Diego after a long deployment, facing scrutiny over alleged reports of mental health issues and supply shortages.

SAN DIEGO — The USS Abraham Lincoln is returning to San Diego after a lengthy deployment, having been relieved by the USS George Washington in the Middle East. The Abraham Lincoln, which has spent over 250 days at sea without a port call, has been in the spotlight due to alleged reports of mental health challenges and supply shortages among crew members during its mission supporting U.S. operations against Iran.



This story continues below.

“The USS Abraham Lincoln has been the longest aircraft carrier without a port call in modern history over 250 days,” Congresswoman Sara Jacobs said.

Thousands of service members are now heading back home, Jacobs expressed relief that the USS George Washington has taken over but voiced concerns about the conditions on the Abraham Lincoln. 

“Now we need to get into the real investigation of what exactly happened and how it was allowed to happen which is why I’ve called on the house armed services committee to have a field hearing here in San Diego to meet with the families I’ve talked with families directly and we’ve also asked the pentagon inspector general to look into the conditions and how this was allowed to happen,”Jacobs said. 

There have been rumors, fueled by a now-deleted online post, that the USS Abraham Lincoln’s ombudsman was relieved of duty after discussing crew conditions with a member of Congress. 

A U.S. Navy spokesperson clarified to News 8 that the ombudsman remains in their position telling News 8 in statement: 

“The ombudsman for the USS Abraham Lincoln has not been removed. 

An ombudsman is a volunteer who serves as the link between a command’s leadership and command families, and we are grateful to those who serve in these important roles.”

In conclusion, a Navy spokesperson previously stated that there is no identified increase in reported suicidal ideation or attempts on the ship. As the USS Abraham Lincoln returns home, concerns remain about the past deployment and its implications for service members’ welfare.