Sailors on duty Christmas day aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) were able to share a traditional aboard with their families, Dec. 25.

More than 30 family members joined Lincoln Sailors for a Christmas meal on the mess decks, including traditional Christmas favorites such as oven roasted turkey, shrimp cocktail and baked sweet potato.

"I understand how it is being away from your family during the holidays," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Brook Cross, Lincoln's new food service officer. "We try to make it feel as comfortable as possible being on the ship by bringing family aboard. We try to make it feel like home."

For those with little ones at home, it was especially heartwarming to be able to spend time with their family on Christmas day.

"My little guys were so excited to see where I go to work every day," said Lt. Cmdr. Tiffani Walker, Lincoln's public affairs officer, talking about her two sons. "It's important to spend time with family on Christmas, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to bring them aboard."

While it is necessary to remain a manned and ready warship, it is important Sailors have the opportunity to enjoy the holiday tradition of a Christmas meal.

"I would just like to thank the Lincoln so much to inviting me to be here," said Colby Murray, the husband of Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Megan Arnold. "This is a treat and a blessing to be able to see my wife on Christmas day. When she first saw me she was smiling from ear to ear, and I could just tell it meant the world to her."

Lincoln is in the final stages of a four year Refueling and Complex Overhaul and will be delivered back to the fleet in early 2017.

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