Abraham Lincoln Crew Reunited After Grueling 322-Day War Mission

The USS Abraham Lincoln has docked at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego after a grueling 322-day deployment. This mission included a record 265 consecutive days at sea while the ship helped wage war on Iran. Crew members were greeted by family and friends Thursday. Twenty-year-old Abel Ramirez told The Associated Press that it feels amazing to be home. His parents drove all the way from Texas just to see him. He admitted there was a point when he never thought he would come off the carrier.

This long mission became a symbol for larger criticisms of the US war effort. The conflict has dragged on since February with no clear end in sight. Stockpiles are strained and conditions on board have deteriorated. Reports surfaced about food shortages and mental health struggles among the sailors. Several crew members reportedly made suicide attempts during this time.

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth praised the sailors on Wednesday. He accused the media of trying to turn the ship into a symbol of dysfunction or low morale. President Donald Trump has frequently lashed out at news outlets for critical reporting on the war against Iran. Trump himself called the reports about the USS Lincoln fake news. At an Oval Office meeting on August 17, he said people on the ship say it is beautifully maintained and taken care of. Earlier in the month, when asked about the deployment length, Trump quipped that the mission was not nearly long enough.

Public opinion polls show low approval ratings for this war among US voters. On Thursday, the Pew Research Center released a poll finding 65 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of the war. Only 33 percent approved. The conflict also fuels concerns about the cost of living ahead of upcoming midterm elections. Iran has hindered commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz since the war began. This waterway is critical for fuel, fertilizer, and other goods trade.

Sailors returning home spoke about looking forward to fresh meals and time with their families. Alma Solano Velez said her husband shared a list of foods he craved over his 10-month deployment. He wanted oxtail, barbecue chicken, broccoli, and shrimp empanadas among other things. She added that he had spoken about the lack of food and showers on board. Now he looks forward to seeing their four-year-old daughter again.