Mission accomplishment. Troop Welfare. This is how we lead. 

The Lincoln was extended because the mission demanded it. Deployments are hard. Combat operations make them harder. War is hell and normal routines are disrupted. One of the hardest aspects about warfighting beyond knowingly placing our service members in harm’s way is that even with the best planning and communication, change and uncertainty will always be in play. Our success depends on how we adapt. 

Sailors and Marines are expected to dig deep—and they always do. A leader’s responsibility is to take care of their people the best they can while balancing mission requirements. During this deployment we have seen both: the job is getting done and our leaders are taking care of their people.  

Unfortunately, the media are trying to paint our warriors as victims. Not only is that dishonest but it takes away the focus on the enemy and the threat it poses against our nation, people, and way of life.  

Here is the truth— 

• 266 days deployed. 

• 200 days in a combat zone. 

• 10,000+ sorties. 

• 1.5M lbs. of ordnance dropped. 

• And retention rates on the ABE are amongst the highest of all carriers.  

It is also true— 

• A small number of mental health cases were treated with no loss of life. 

• Meal plans were adjusted when fresh resupply was unavailable, without a single meal being missed. 

• Calls home were limited when the operational threat was too high. 

There is no question our young men and women have been pushed to their limits—but they have never broken. They are rightly tired—but have never been out of the fight. However, it is clear, knowing the whole story, our force and their families are not victims. They are the epitome of American strength and resilience. 

So, when the USS Abraham Lincoln pulls into the pier, join me and stand proudly with a grateful heart and give our Sailors and Marines the Hero’s Welcome they deserve. Semper Fi and Hooyah. 

The Honorable Hung Cao 

Acting Secretary of the Navy