8 sailors attempted suicide on Lincoln carrier group's long deployment, Navy leader says

Your support keeps PBS News free and accessible. Ben Finley, Associated Press Ben Finley, Associated Press Konstantin Toropin, Associated Press Konstantin Toropin, Associated Press EDITOR'S NOTE: This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org . WASHINGTON (AP) — Eight sailors attempted suicide while deployed with the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group, which spent a record-setting uninterrupted time at sea supporting the Iran war, the Navy's top civilian leader said this week. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao provided the information to Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand in a letter dated Tuesday after the New York Democrat inquired last month about the strike group's crew. The Lincoln's extended deployment drew the nation's attention following reports of crew stress and poor mental health, as well as supply shortages, including food and hygiene products. WATCH: Trump dismisses concerns over conditions on long-deployed USS Abraham Lincoln Eight attempts in a strike group of 6,000 sailors over 10 months is actually low, experts say.

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