Pattaya welcomes US Navy carrier crew for five-day stay

Pattaya has welcomed a group of over 5,000 US Navy personnel from the USS Abraham Lincoln, with their five-day shore leave expected to inject approximately 100 million baht into the local economy. The Lincoln arrived at Laem Chabang Port on September 2, carrying Carrier Strike Group 3, Carrier Air Wing 9, Destroyer Squadron 21, and nine air wing squadrons.

The USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, docked the same day at Sri Racha. Personnel are set to remain in Pattaya until September 6.

Upon their arrival, sailor groups were transported to the Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya, designated as the main transport and coordination center for the visiting personnel. The city's mayor, Poramet Ngampichet, along with the city police station superintendent and Bang Lamung district officials, welcomed the sailors with flower garlands, traditional Thai textiles, and souvenirs.

The strong bond between Pattaya and the US Navy has allowed sailors to frequently choose the city as a recreational destination. Mayor Poramet highlighted the significance of this visit due to the crew's prolonged period at sea during their operational deployments. USS Abraham Lincoln's commanding officer, Captain Dan Keeler, expressed appreciation for the city's warm welcome and expressed excitement for the crew's leisure time.

Analysis suggests the crew's extended stay at sea may be a record, raising concerns about the impact on their well-being. Mayor Poramet estimates that personnel spending on accommodation, tourism, and various activities during their stay would generate a minimum of 100 million baht for the city. To ensure a smooth visit, mobile ATMs have been deployed, and the city is closely monitoring businesses to prevent price-gouging.

Sailors are subject to several restrictions, imposed by the US Navy for safety and security reasons, which include prohibition from engaging in water activities, access to cannabis shops, and certain areas of Pattaya, such as Soi 6 and Soi 7. Despite these limitations, the mayor stressed that most areas of Pattaya, including the lively Walking Street, remain accessible to personnel.

Pol. Col. Anek Sathongyu assured the public that the sailors are there to enjoy a vacation in Thailand, with no reason to believe they will cause problems or exacerbate stress from their deployment.

Chon Buri Governor Narit Niramaiwong led a joint team of officials onto Pattaya's Walking Street, extending a welcome to personnel and showcasing the city's local transport and attractions. The governor's visit marked the first full day of the sailors' stay, with a larger crowd expected in the evening.