The US Navy has issued an official denial of information circulating on social media about alleged critical food shortages on warships. The reason for the publicity was photos of extremely small portions of food allegedly being given to the personnel of the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln and the amphibious assault ship Tripoli. Both ships are currently carrying out combat missions as part of Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East.
The Office of the Chief of Naval Operations said in a statement that the published materials do not reflect the real state of affairs. The command assures that sufficient reserves of high-quality food have been formed on board both ships, necessary to maintain the combat readiness of the crews.
In addition to accusations of low-quality food, claims were spread online about the complete cessation of the delivery of private packages from relatives of the military, which allegedly deprived the sailors of the opportunity to receive food from home.
“The health and well-being of our sailors and Marines is my priority, and each crew member continues to receive complete and nutritionally balanced portions of food,” the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations emphasized.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth expressed sharp criticism of media resources that are replicating similar messages. The head of the defense department emphasized that the logistics of the units is under constant control, and logistical reports indicate the absence of any problems with food.
According to him, the Class I food supplies on the ships “Abraham Lincoln” and “Tripoli” are designed for at least 30 days of autonomous operation.
“My team has confirmed the logistical indicators for both ships. US Naval Central Command monitors this daily for each facility. Our sailors deserve — and receive — the best,” the US Secretary of Defense concluded.
Regarding the situation with mail, the Pentagon explained that short-term restrictions on the delivery of private cargo were indeed introduced. Such measures were due to the intensity of combat operations in the conflict zone and security considerations. However, these restrictions have now been lifted, and the US Armed Forces have resumed standard logistics procedures for personal correspondence and parcels throughout the Middle East.
The statements by US officials are intended to reassure families of servicemen and stop speculation about the provision of participants in Operation Epic Fury. US Naval Central Command continues to monitor the physical condition of the crews and assures that a full ration remains an integral part of the strategy for maintaining high morale of the units. Further deliveries will take place according to the approved military logistics schedule.
