Beleaguered US carrier reaches Thailand, raising hopes and fears

After 286 days at sea, the USS Abraham Lincoln arrived at Lamchebang port near Pattaya, Thailand on Wednesday after having set a modern day record for the longest consecutive deployment at sea, according to democratic lawmakers. The aircraft carrier behind me left San Diego in November last year and was redirected to the Middle East during the US-Israel war with Iran. It arrived amid reports of mental health concerns, suicide attempts and deteriorating conditions aboard. With around 5,000 sailors and marines on board, the Lincoln's arrival is drawing attention across Pattaya. The carrier is stopping in Thailand for a five-day visit, according to Thai officials, giving some crew members a chance to rest and recover after a lengthy deployment at sea. In Pattaya, a fishing village partly transformed into a tourism center for U.S. servicemen during the Vietnam War. Businesses are hoping for a much-needed boost. Officials estimate each visitor could spend between about 30 to 90 U.S. dollars per day. We spoke to a local street food vendor. But the visit is also drawing attention to sex tourism in Pattaya, despite prostitution being illegal in Thailand. Ahead of the carrier's arrival, police step up patrols and carried out raids that led to doses of detentions over suspected prostitution. Researchers say the influx of visitors could bring an economic boost but also raises concerns about sexual exploitation and public health. For now, Pattaya is hoping the visit will help its local businesses while preparing for pressures that arise among mass tourism.