The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in eastern Thailand early this morning after a grueling mission in the Middle East.
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Associated Press journalists saw the aircraft carrier Lincoln, carrying about 5,000 armed forces personnel, approaching the port of Laem Chabang in Chonburi province, shortly after the U.S. destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. sailed through the area.
The aircraft carrier was supporting US military operations against Iran. Its mission included a record-breaking deployment of over 250 days at sea. Concerns grew about the length of the Lincoln's deployment following reports of deteriorating mental health among its crew and shortages of supplies, including food and hygiene products.
The US aircraft carrier USS George Washington, which is usually based in Asia, replaced the Lincoln, which spent a long deployment in the Middle East, in August.
Many of the troops are expected to visit Pattaya, a popular beach town near the port. Thai officials said the Lincoln's stop in the country is for rest and recuperation before its return to its base in the United States.
Local officials said they welcomed the visit and the boost it could provide to the local economy. Authorities added that they had strengthened security measures to ensure the visit proceeded smoothly.
