LAEM CHABANG, Thailand – The United States Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln steamed into Thailand’s Laem Chabang deep-sea port on Wednesday morning after more than 200 days at sea, including a long deployment in the Middle East, amid reports of mental health concerns and deteriorating conditions aboard the vessel. The Lincoln, with approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines aboard, has set a modern-day record for consecutive days at sea, according to Democratic lawmakers, as typical naval deployments last between six and nine months but can be extended during times of conflict.

Pattaya Arrests Street Prostitutes Ahead Of US Carrier Visit

Accompanied by other US naval vessels, the aircraft carrier will stop in Thailand, the United States’ only treaty partner in mainland Southeast Asia, for rest and recuperation for five days, according to Thai officials. The arrival of thousands of military personnel has raised hopes of an economic boost in the nearby resort city of Pattaya, which also has a long-standing reputation as a sex tourism destination, with a fleet of approximately 40 buses set to ferry personnel between Pattaya and the port.

Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches stated that there are certain places and activities that the personnel are prohibited from participating in, such as all kinds of water sports, jet skiing, bungee jumping, wrestling, and boxing. Police will deploy additional patrols around Pattaya’s main beachfront and nightlife district, following raids over the weekend that led to 40 to 50 people being detained for suspected prostitution, officials said. Although illegal in Thailand, the sex industry is openly visible in major tourism hubs, including parts of Bangkok and Pattaya, despite occasional crackdowns.

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

The visit marks a significant moment for the US Navy, which has been operating in the Middle East region amid ongoing tensions, and offers a rare opportunity for crew members to rest after an extended deployment. The economic impact of the visit is expected to be substantial, with local businesses preparing for an influx of visitors, though authorities have also taken steps to ensure public order and safety during the port call. The Lincoln is scheduled to depart on September 7, with its next destination not yet disclosed.

-Thailand News (TN)