US commander says mental health a 'priority' on USS Lincoln
The U.S. military is addressing concerns regarding the mental health and living conditions of sailors aboard the USS Lincoln, which has been deployed for a record-setting duration. While leadership maintains that mental health is a priority, reports of poor sanitation and crew distress have prompted congressional inquiry.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the strain on military personnel during extended deployments and the political tension surrounding military readiness and welfare.
Image source, Reuters Published 16 August 2026, 21:14 BST Updated 4 minutes ago The top US military commander in the Middle East has said mental health is a "priority" on the warship USS Lincoln, following reports of difficult conditions on board the long-deployed ship.
After visiting the vessel on Saturday, Adm Brad Cooper said it had "among the lowest number of cases related to mental health" out of 11 active US aircraft carriers.
But he acknowledged that Navy service at sea for long periods was "uniquely challenging and tough".
The ship arrived in the Middle East in January and has been supporting the US war against Iran, including the blockade on Iranian ports. It has spent a record-setting uninterrupted time at sea of more than 240 days.
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