Adm. Brad Cooper, the U.S. Central Command Commander, addressed mental health concerns aboard the USS Lincoln, which has been deployed for over eight months. Despite the Lincoln having one of the lowest mental health case rates among the Navy's 11 active aircraft carriers, reports indicate widespread morale issues, including sailors attempting to jump overboard.
Cooper praised the crew's efforts to prioritize mental health, but President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed concerns about the deployment's duration. Lawmakers, including Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, have criticized the Pentagon for the conditions faced by service members, calling for accountability and a clear strategy regarding military engagements.
The USS George Washington is set to replace the Lincoln in the region, which may alleviate some of the pressures faced by the crew