PATTAYA, Thailand – Hundreds of US Navy sailors and Marines from the USS Abraham Lincoln began exploring Pattaya early Thursday on their second day of shore leave, arriving at the resort city in buses from Laem Chabang port where the aircraft carrier is docked. The Lincoln, carrying approximately 5,000 personnel, arrived in Thailand’s eastern province on Wednesday for a five-day rest and recuperation stop after 286 days at sea, including a lengthy deployment in the Middle East.

USS Abraham Lincoln Arrives in Thailand After Middle East Deployment

The carrier’s time at sea has been described as a modern-day record for consecutive days without a port call, with the ship having only one previous stop in Guam last December since departing San Diego in November 2025. Reports have emerged of deteriorating living conditions and mental health concerns on board, which have drawn criticism from US lawmakers.

Local businesses have been preparing for the influx, with bus operators reporting lively activity since morning. One operator stated that the arrival of the military personnel would stimulate the local economy, which has been relatively quiet, while taxi drivers have confirmed that some visitors have chartered particular drivers to serve them throughout their stay.

Restrictions have been placed on the personnel, including a ban on water sports such as jet skiing, as well as bungee jumping, wrestling, and boxing. The sailors are also prohibited from visiting cannabis shops, with limitations on entry to certain entertainment venues after sunset. Authorities recently conducted raids that led to about 40 to 50 people being detained for suspected prostitution, though officials have denied this was specifically linked to the US arrival.

Among those welcoming the crew was a mother who traveled from the United States to meet her daughter, a sailor who celebrated her birthday aboard the Lincoln. She described the reunion as emotional after her daughter spent so long at sea.

Pattaya Prepares To Welcome 5,000 Us Navy Personnel As Aircraft Carrier Arrives

The USS Abraham Lincoln is scheduled to depart on Sunday, continuing its journey back to the United States. Its arrival in Thailand has been described as a demonstration of the strong partnership between the two countries.

-Thailand News (TN)