Crew members of the USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in Thailand’s Pattaya on Thursday, Sept. 3, following a 286-day deployment to the Middle East, including 264 consecutive days at sea.

The lengthy deployment has sparked discussion about crew conditions, mental health and supply shortages, while some people commenting on the ship’s arrival also pointed to its weathered, rusty appearance.

The U.S. Navy has downplayed the reported issues. The carrier’s arrival at Laem Chabang Port drew crowds of vendors, supporters, and onlookers eager to welcome the sailors and catch a glimpse of the massive warship.

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