Defense Secretary Hegseth awards Presidential Unit Citation to USS Abraham Lincoln crew
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth presented the Presidential Unit Citation to the USS Abraham Lincoln crew upon their return to San Diego Bay on Thursday after a 265-day deployment in the Middle East.
Award ceremony details
Hegseth delivered the highest unit award Wednesday while the carrier was still at sea. He stated that the citation recognizes significant achievement in combat operations against Iran. The secretary emphasized the crew's ability to adapt and overcome challenges during the mission.
Deployment conditions reported
Reports indicate the 265-day mission involved supply shortages and deteriorating mental health among sailors. Hegseth rejected claims that the ship represents a symbol of dysfunction or low morale. He argued the crew finished the mission despite these difficult circumstances.
Return to home port
The aircraft carrier arrived in San Diego Bay on Thursday following its long deployment. Hegseth flew out specifically to present the award before the vessel docked. The event marks the end of a record-long period at sea.
All 2 outlets report consistently
No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.
- The Hill
- South China Morning Post
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.