US Navy Confirms Eight Suicide Attempts Aboard Extended Middle East Deployment

Eight members of a US aircraft carrier group tried to take their own lives during an extended mission at sea, according to the US Navy. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao shared these figures in a letter to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand after the New York Democrat asked about crew welfare.

Mission Details And Support

The USS Abraham Lincoln left California last November and remained at sea far past its planned May return date after being redirected to the Middle East. The vessel carried roughly 5,000 personnel, with the affected individuals belonging to various units across the strike group including the main carrier, air wing, and escort ships. Navy leadership stated that five chaplains and several mental health professionals were stationed on board to provide support.

Leadership Defense And Official Response

Cao defended the extended mission by pointing to shifting global security needs and the priority of protecting national interests and allies. At the same time, families of the crew had earlier spoken out about worsening mental health and tough living conditions. While the Navy disputed reports of a widespread mental health emergency, Cao acknowledged brief issues with onboard plumbing systems and water makers that led to limited food choices for a short time. Senator Gillibrand criticized the earlier handling of these reports, noting that dismissed concerns actually pointed to real hardships faced by service members. The carrier has since started its journey back home after stopping in Thailand, and the USS George Washington took over its duties in August.