Food supply issues in the US Navy

Soldiers serving on the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, which is participating in operations against Iran in the Middle East, have long been struggling with inadequate food supplies and heavy workloads. Families of the more than 5,000 personnel on board claim that their loved ones are physically and mentally exhausted due to back-to-back long shifts, dwindling basic necessities, and a lack of hygiene.

According to the families' claims, those serving on the ship are often forced to settle for simple meals consisting of only half a cup of rice and a few pieces of food. It is also reported that there is difficulty in accessing personal care items such as soap and deodorant, and that these products are frequently unavailable in the ship's stores.

It was stated that many crew members have not been able to take leave for weeks, some toilets are non-functional, and laundry services are occasionally disrupted. The worsening working conditions are also leading to an increase in psychological problems. Situations such as the inability to find hot water in showers, mold growth, and the lack of opportunities for rest are negatively affecting the morale of the crew.

A relative named Bonnie York summarized the low morale on the ship by saying, "Morale is very low. If they cannot reach a port soon, psychological problems could escalate."

The USS Abraham Lincoln reached Middle Eastern waters in January after departing from San Diego in November 2025. The planned seven-month deployment has been extended to over 250 days due to tensions with Iran.

Families emphasize that the personnel have only been able to go to port a few times and therefore have not had enough opportunity to rest. Former Navy personnel Brett Snow stated that aircraft carriers offer a dangerous working environment even in peacetime, and that this risk is further increased under current conditions.

While crew relatives claim that holes have formed on the deck due to wear and tear, US Fifth Fleet Spokesperson Joseph Hontz denied these allegations. Hontz argued that any damage that may occur is repaired by the crew when necessary and that the ship is in a condition to carry out its duties. He also acknowledged that the deployment process, which has exceeded 250 days, is straining both personnel and equipment.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth had previously denied reports of food shortages on aircraft carriers. While Secretary Hegseth used the term "fake news" for the photos of small-portioned meals that were published, the US Navy also stated that sufficient and balanced food is provided on the ships.

PERSONNEL'S MENTAL HEALTH CAUSES CONCERN

Democratic Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, who represents San Diego, expressed serious concerns regarding the fatigue and mental health issues of the USS Abraham Lincoln personnel, calling for improvements in conditions for the staff. Jacobs pointed out that the risk of suicide is higher, especially among personnel who remain at sea for long periods.

Another family member, Nicole Conrad, asked Secretary of Defense Hegseth to visit the ship in person and evaluate the conditions on-site. Bonnie York also stated that she voted for Donald Trump with the belief that he would not enter wars, but that she thinks the military is being pushed to its limits in the current process.

On the other hand, some families who stated that they voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 elections in the US expressed their discomfort with the country entering a war with Iran.

News Source: 12punto