Military families confront acting Navy secretary over USS Lincoln's prolonged Iran deployment; no return date as ship hits 259 days at sea

Military families are increasingly frustrated as the USS Lincoln's deployment stretches to 259 days, with no clear return date. During a tense meeting, families voiced concerns over mental health, food shortages, and safety issues affecting the 5,000 sailors and Marines aboard the carrier.¹⁴

Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao faced a barrage of questions from about 200 family members in San Diego, who demanded answers regarding the prolonged deployment and deteriorating conditions. "We hear you loud and clear, the impact this has on families, on service members, and the long-term ability of us to stand, sustain our forces’ health," said Navy leadership.³

Families reported issues such as broken toilets, suspected mold, and food shortages. Vice Adm. Douglas Verissimo acknowledged logistical difficulties that have led to backlogs in food deliveries, stating, "We’re doing a better job with supplies and mail. It’s getting better; it’s still not good, and it was extremely bad for a little while."⁸

The USS Lincoln, which left San Diego on November 21, has only made two stops, keeping the crew at sea for 208 consecutive days. As families expressed their fears, one parent shared her daughter's distress, saying, "She feels that she is never going to come home and believes she is going to die on the ship." The Navy is preparing the USS Theodore Roosevelt to eventually relieve the Lincoln, but no specific date has been provided due to operational security.²⁵

Tensions escalated during a virtual meeting later that night, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by military families as they await their loved ones' return.⁶