USS Abraham Lincoln set to return home after record 244 days at sea

Relief is on the way for sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln after the aircraft carrier spent a record 244 days at sea without stopping at a port.

(NBC)- Relief is on the way for sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln after the aircraft carrier spent a record 244 days at sea without stopping at a port.

The Lincoln, which has most recently been carrying out strikes against Iran, is expected to be replaced by another Navy aircraft carrier and begin sailing home in the coming weeks, according to a U.S. official.

The carrier had initially been scheduled to return home in May.

Two U.S. officials told NBC News there have been growing complaints from sailors and their families about deteriorating conditions aboard the ship.

Danielle Rappa, whose son is serving aboard the Lincoln, said the lengthy deployment has taken a toll on his mental health.

“This is a young man who can tolerate an enormous amount,” Rappa said. “When he starts describing his life to his mother as American Horror Story and talking about being completely exhausted — I listen.”

Complaints have included limited meal portions. A U.S. official also said one sailor went overboard during the deployment but was quickly rescued.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked the sailors for their service while pushing back against reports about conditions aboard the carrier.

“Completely misrepresented,” Hegseth said. “We make sure every ship, every crew, every captain has everything we can provide them at every single moment.”

The planned return comes as the war with Iran continues. President Donald Trump has increasingly emphasized economic pressure as his administration seeks a deal with Tehran.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said tougher sanctions against Iran are coming, promising the administration will apply measures “like have never been seen.”