Thousands of US sailors and Marines have arrived in Thailand for a much-needed break after spending a record 286 consecutive days at sea aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln.
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The nuclear-powered carrier docked at Laem Chabang, near the popular resort city of Pattaya, on Wednesday, September 2, marking the crew’s first major port call since November. About 5,000 sailors and Marines are expected to spend several days ashore before the ship begins its journey back to the United States.
The unusually long deployment set a modern-day record for uninterrupted time at sea. The USS Abraham Lincoln had initially been deployed to the South China Sea but was later redirected to the Middle East as the conflict involving the United States and Iran intensified.
The extended mission has attracted attention because of reports about difficult conditions aboard the carrier, including concerns over crew welfare and mental health. US officials have defended the sailors’ performance during the deployment, while the port visit is intended to give them an opportunity to rest and recover after months of operations.
For Pattaya, the arrival is also expected to provide a welcome boost to local businesses. The city has experienced weaker tourism activity amid disruptions linked to the wider Middle East conflict, and officials and business owners are hoping the thousands of visiting service members will generate additional spending in hotels, restaurants, shops and other businesses.
Thai authorities have increased security ahead of the visit, with hundreds of officials expected to assist with logistics and public safety. Local businesses have also been warned against overcharging the visiting sailors, while police patrols have been increased in busy tourist areas.
The visit carries historical significance as well. Pattaya became a popular rest-and-recreation destination for US military personnel during the Vietnam War, helping transform the once-sleepy fishing community into one of Thailand’s best-known tourist destinations.
The sailors are expected to spend several days in Thailand before the USS Abraham Lincoln continues its journey home. After nearly 10 months of deployment, the stop in Pattaya represents a rare opportunity for the crew to step ashore, relax and prepare for the final leg of their journey