US Navy sailor who jumped from USS Abraham Lincoln faces disciplinary action - report

A US Navy sailor who jumped from the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is facing disciplinary action, according to an MS NOW report. The sailor, 19 years old, is accused of violating Article 83 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice for malingering, or faking an illness, and Article 86 for absence without leave. His wife claims he did not receive the necessary mental health care, which exacerbated his struggles.

She says he reported his mental health concerns multiple times to both his chain of command and the ship's medical team, but was dismissed. The sailor reportedly attempted suicide on August 3, was medically evacuated and returned to San Diego on August 13. Despite being told to report back to work immediately, he did not receive therapy or psychiatric care until August 26, nearly a month after his attempted suicide.

His wife learned about the incident from a friend aboard the ship and was not contacted until four days later. The sailor and his wife have two children, with the youngest born in February. He had requested paternity leave, but it was denied. Nonjudicial punishment, typically used for minor rule-breaking, will determine the sailor's punishment, possibly costing him up to half his pay.

The incident has raised questions about the US Navy's handling of mental health and suicide among service members. Military lawyers say there is a legal mechanism to punish service members who attempt suicide, even as the department offers resources for mental health support. While technically suicide attempts should not be charged, it is ultimately at the discretion of the commanding officer.

A US Navy official stated that the navy is committed to the health and well-being of every sailor, offering 24/7 mental health resources and taking appropriate action when someone needs it.