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This morning, we're learning eight U.S. service members attempted suicide during the USS Abraham
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Lincoln strike group's extraordinarily long deployment. Acting Navy Secretary Hong Cao confirmed the number in a letter to Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand this week
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The eight attempts have happened across the Lincoln strike group since it left San Diego
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last November, two during active fighting with Iran. No suicides have occurred on board
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The Lincoln has now been deployed for more than nine months, far longer than originally planned, with much of that time spent supporting the war with Iran
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And for months, families have been raising concerns about conditions on board, including food and supply problems, faulty plumbing, and the mental health of the crew
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The Pentagon has pushed back on reports of a mental health crisis, saying it has not seen an increase in suicide attempts and that counselors, chaplains, and other support are available
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The Navy also sent additional counselors and social workers to the ship last month
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The Lincoln has now been replaced in the Middle East by the USS George Washington
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and is heading back toward San Diego after stops in Thailand and Guam
