After spending months at sea, the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln —which has been at the center of various controversies—anchored off the coast of the Thai city of Pattaya on Wednesday. This stopover allows the approximately 5,000 military personnel on board to rest. News agency Reuters reported that the ship is scheduled to remain docked for five days.
AFP journalists reported sighting the massive nuclear-powered warship as it prepared to enter the Laem Chabang port near Pattaya. This marks the first time since November that the ship’s crew of nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines have had the opportunity to step onto Thai soil.
The Abraham Lincoln departed from California in November to begin its deployment. It was initially sent to the South China Sea before being redeployed to the Middle East. This change in mission occurred about six months ago, prior to the escalation of tensions involving potential US and Israeli strikes against Iran.
However, the ship’s prolonged deployment has sparked criticism in the US regarding living conditions and the environment on board. Reports have surfaced highlighting a decline in the quality of life and concerns about the mental health of the crew, with some accounts even mentioning attempted suicides.
These incidents have intensified criticism within the US regarding President Donald Trump’s policy of confrontation with Iran.
Meanwhile, security has been tightened in the Thai tourist city of Pattaya to welcome the US sailors and Marines. Pattaya has been a popular destination for US troops seeking rest and recreation since the Vietnam War era.
While Pattaya is immensely popular among foreign tourists for its beaches and vibrant nightlife, the city has long faced criticism regarding its sex tourism industry.
Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches stated that recent crackdowns on sex workers had taken place in the city; however, he denied allegations that these operations were conducted specifically in anticipation of the US military personnel’s arrival. A signboard has already been put up outside a bar in the city, reading: “Welcome to all US military personnel. Thank you for your service.”
The mayor stated that buses have been arranged to transport the sailors from the ship to Pattaya and back until the vessel departs Thailand on Sunday.
In a Facebook post earlier this week, the mayor said, “They have come here to rest.”
He emphasized that ensuring the safety of US military personnel and preventing them from being overcharged would be top priorities.
However, certain activities have been prohibited for the US sailors and Marines. They have been asked to refrain from water sports such as jet-skiing. Additionally, they have been advised against consuming marijuana, despite Thailand’s relatively lenient laws regarding the drug.
At the same time, they have been encouraged to enjoy the city’s other attractions, ranging from shopping malls to religious sites.
