Eight sailors serving aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier or its accompanying vessels during a nine-month deployment to the Middle East attempted suicide, according to Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao. In a letter addressed to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Cao confirmed that none of the attempts resulted in death.

The letter, dated earlier this week, detailed two specific incidents. In early August, one sailor reportedly went overboard from the USS Abraham Lincoln and was subsequently rescued by a helicopter. Another sailor made an unsuccessful attempt to go overboard in March but was prevented from doing so by fellow crew members.

The USS Abraham Lincoln embarked on its extended mission to the region as part of ongoing U.S. naval operations in the Middle East. The deployment has coincided with heightened tensions and operational demands, factors that could contribute to increased stress among service members.

The Navy has not publicly elaborated on the full circumstances surrounding the eight reported suicide attempts or the measures being taken to address mental health and well-being among personnel on this and other deployments. Acting Secretary Cao’s letter highlights the ongoing concern within the service regarding suicide prevention and support for sailors under challenging conditions.

Senator Gillibrand has previously advocated for increased mental health resources and suicide prevention programs within the military. The recent disclosures underscore continuing efforts to monitor and respond to service members’ welfare during long and intensive deployments.