Eight sailors assigned to USS Lincoln attempted suicide, Navy Secretary tells Congress

Eight US Navy personnel assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group attempted suicide during its record-breaking deployment, which included its participation in the Iran war, according to a letter from Active Navy Secretary Hung Cao. The attempts occurred among 6,000-7,000 service members across the strike group. A US military official stated the number was "incredibly high," noting, "The strain of combat ops is much higher than normal deployments. No port calls, constant alerts, etc." However, CNN reported the rate was consistent with the active-duty Navy in 2024. No service members died by suicide during the deployment. The Lincoln had mental health resources, including five chaplains and a psychologist. This information was in response to a letter from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand regarding crew conditions, amidst reports of declining morale, which US officials denied.