The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier arrived back at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego on Thursday, concluding a 321-day deployment. The ship's return was met by thousands of military families and friends, many of whom had waited months for this day.
The deployment, which began last November, was extended after the carrier was diverted to the Middle East following the US and Israel's war with Iran. This resulted in 264 consecutive days at sea without a port call, a record in modern naval history, according to the Defense Department.
During the extended period, sailors reported hazardous living conditions, including shortages of food and basic supplies, and a decline in mental health. The US Navy confirmed last month that eight service members from the Lincoln and its accompanying strike group had attempted suicide since the deployment began.
Despite the long-awaited reunion, some families expressed mixed emotions, noting the significant time missed. One mother, Brenda Rivas, stated she was five months pregnant when her husband deployed and he missed their daughter's birth.