Overview
- A 19‑year‑old sailor who jumped overboard earlier this month was medically evacuated to San Diego and spent days at Naval Medical Center Balboa before returning to duty, according to family accounts.
- Charging documents reviewed by reporters accuse the sailor of violating Article 83 for malingering and Article 86 for being absent without leave and say he faces a captain’s mast for non‑judicial punishment.
- The sailor’s wife says he repeatedly sought help from ship medical staff and leadership, did not see a psychiatrist during his Balboa stay, received a therapy appointment only after returning home, and was not notified immediately by Navy officials.
- The Navy responded that it is committed to sailor wellbeing and that mental‑health resources are available 24/7 while commanders retain discretion to pursue disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
- The case has focused attention on the Lincoln’s extended deployment, reported failures in food, plumbing and laundry that affected morale, and calls from lawmakers for records and briefings as a relief carrier moves to replace the ship.