Home / War and Conflict / US Carrier Departs Thailand After 5-Day Friendship Visit
US Carrier Departs Thailand After 5-Day Friendship Visit
6 Sep
Summary
- Nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines explored Pattaya during a five-day visit.
- The USS Abraham Lincoln's cabin featured decor inspired by President Lincoln.
- The visit strengthened Thailand-US cooperation in tourism and security.
The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and its accompanying strike group units departed Thailand on September 6, concluding a five-day port visit that fostered goodwill between Thailand and the United States. Chonburi officials, led by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, bid farewell to the carrier, which hosted nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines.
During their time ashore, the U.S. personnel explored Pattaya and various parts of Chonburi, contributing to local tourism and businesses. The U.S. Embassy's Force Protection Detachment facilitated the farewell ceremony, where gifts were exchanged between U.S. Navy Captain Dan Keeler and Thai representatives, symbolizing the strengthened friendship.
Captain Keeler provided the Thai delegation with a tour of his cabin, uniquely decorated in a style reminiscent of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln's office. This provided an informal cultural exchange and a glimpse into the life aboard the massive warship. The visit demonstrated Chonburi's capability in managing major international events and bolstered cooperation in tourism, security, and international relations.
The U.S. Navy expressed gratitude for the hospitality, calling the visit a highlight for the crew's morale and a success for bilateral relations. The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group continues its mission in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, with the positive memories of the Thailand visit reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
