Today’s story about the eight attempted suicides by sailors on the Navy ships that comprise the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is one that draws attention to what it can be like to be on duty during war time.
Oh it’s easy to say, as some will do, that being a sailor or a soldier or a member of any of the armed forces when serving during a military conflict, it’s time to just suck it up and do your job.
But ask anyone who has served in a war and it’s not that simple.
The crew of the Lincoln spent more than 300 days at sea and set a Navy record for the longest time at sea without making a port call. And during a time of tension in the Middle East.
And as we have reported, spouses of these service men and women, were hearing from the government that all was well while their husbands and wives were telling them what was actually going on.
One thing is for sure.
When the USS Abraham Lincoln sails into San Diego Bay early next month and arrives at North Island, the crew will be welcomed home by tens of thousands of people who are grateful for their service.
And thankful that there are men and women who voluntarily choose to serve their country and defend us. All of us.
(Photo Getty Images)