On 8/9, Admiral Daryl Caudle, commander of the US Navy, announced that the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier is applying lessons learned from the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford warships before departing its homeport of San Diego in the coming weeks.
"It begins with logistics", he stated, adding, "the Roosevelt is maximizing the amount of food, retail products, and hygiene supplies it carries before its departure".
The Pentagon has not yet disclosed the USS Theodore Roosevelt's destination. However, the warship is anticipated to deploy to the Middle East to replace the USS George Washington aircraft carrier, potentially undertaking a prolonged deployment amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
Master Chief Petty Officer John Perryman, who represents all enlisted personnel in the US Navy, noted that the crew is "utilizing and converting empty spaces on the ship into storage areas". This initiative helps the warship maintain self-sufficiency for longer periods, particularly during times when logistical resupply is challenging.
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The USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier departed Pearl Harbor last July. *Photo: US Navy*
Both the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford have undergone extended deployments in the Middle East, supporting operations against Iran. The USS Gerald R. Ford operated at sea for a total of 326 days, marking the longest deployment for a US warship since the Cold War. The Lincoln aircraft carrier also spent over 280 days at sea, including approximately 250 consecutive days without a port call, and is currently en route to its homeport.
US aircraft carriers typically deploy for six to seven months during peacetime, with deployments potentially extending longer in wartime. Warships on duty usually make port calls every 30 to 45 days at sea, allowing the crew to rest and conduct equipment maintenance.
Last month, US media outlets reported on mental health challenges faced by the crew aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, alongside shortages of essential supplies such as food and hygiene products. Several sailors were reportedly said to have attempted to jump from the ship.
Reports suggest that key US logistics centers in the Middle East have sustained damage or faced operational restrictions due to the ongoing conflict. Democratic lawmakers have requested an explanation from the Pentagon regarding these issues.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, showing peeling paint and rust, docked at Laem Chabang port, Thailand, on 2/9. *Video: X/wuthi11_*
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth declared that information regarding living conditions on the ship had been "completely distorted". Commander Caudle stated on 8/9 that the US Navy is also focusing on "quality of life" issues. This includes installing new entertainment equipment, more durable exercise machines, and even pre-purchasing holiday supplies. He added that the force is working to ensure stable communication between families and crew members, following complaints, particularly during the Lincoln's deployment.
The US currently maintains approximately 20 warships in the Middle East, including two aircraft carrier strike groups and one amphibious ready group.
Pham Giang (According to Business Insider, New York Post)
