The aircraft carrier has spent more than 250 straight days at sea as part of its deployment in the Middle East. Military families have reported food and supply shortages, broken plumbing and worsening mental health among the crew. Some sailors have reportedly tried to jump overboard, prompting calls for an official inspection.
NPR has not independently confirmed these details, which were first reported by the “Navy Times.” The Navy disputes reports of an increase in suicide attempts and says mental health support is available aboard the ship.
President Trump is dismissing the claims, and when asked Friday whether the ship’s deployment has gone on too long, he told reporters, “No, no, no. Not nearly long enough.”
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