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Thai authorities prepare for the arrival of 5,000 USS Abraham Lincoln sailors in Pattaya

Thai authorities in the resort city of Pattaya have increased security to welcome approximately 5,000 sailors and marines from the USS Abraham Lincoln. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is returning to the U.S. after a record-setting deployment of more than 250 consecutive days at sea supporting the war against Iran. Local officials have arranged 40 buses to transport service members to the city, where they will be granted a rest and recovery period before the carrier departs for the U.S. base. While the carrier was in the Middle East, reports emerged regarding deteriorating mental health and sanitary conditions among the crew. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that reports of issues onboard were misrepresented, while U.S. Central Command clarified that reports of increased suicidal ideation were false and no deaths occurred aboard the vessel. To accommodate the arrivals, Pattaya's mayor, Poramase Ngampiches, noted that service members will be restricted from certain activities, such as cannabis use, during their stay. The city's police chief, Anek Srathongyoo, ordered a greater police presence in popular areas to ensure a smooth visit for the military personnel.

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