RismadarVoice Reporters
August 28, 2026
A 19-year-old US Navy sailor who survived an apparent suicide attempt by jumping overboard from the USS Abraham Lincoln is facing disciplinary action, raising questions about how the military responds to personnel experiencing mental health crises.
The sailor is facing non-judicial punishment under Articles 83 and 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The allegations involve self-injury to avoid duty and unauthorised absence. If found responsible at a captain’s mast, he could face penalties including the loss of part of his regular pay.
The sailor went overboard on August 3 and remained in the water for about an hour before being rescued. His wife said the Navy did not notify her until four days later, after she had first learned of the incident from one of his colleagues.
After returning to the United States on August 13, the sailor spent five days at Naval Medical Centre San Diego. His wife alleged that he did not see a psychiatrist or therapist during that period and was instructed to return to work after his release. She said his first therapy appointment took place on August 26.
According to his wife, the sailor had previously raised concerns about his mental health with his chain of command and medical personnel. She also said the couple had faced difficulties obtaining paternity leave following the birth of their daughter in February.
The case comes as the USS Abraham Lincoln completes a nine-month deployment that was extended during the conflict involving Iran. Reports have raised concerns about morale, food supplies, living conditions and mental health among its crew.
Representative Sara Jacobs, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said service members should not be punished for seeking necessary mental health care.
The Department of Defence reported that 471 service members died by suicide in 2024, highlighting the continuing challenges surrounding mental health within the military.
The Navy said it remains committed to the health and well-being of its personnel and maintains that asking for help is a sign of strength.
