U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass has recognized the efforts of American and Japanese personnel who responded to a fire aboard the USS New Orleans near White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa on August 20.
The incident involved U.S. sailors working alongside Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force and Coast Guard to extinguish the fire after a 12-hour operation. The joint response highlights ongoing cooperation between the two countries in managing emergencies.
Ambassador Glass stated, “The rapid, coordinated, and courageous response to the fire by American and Japanese teams shows, once again, why the U.S.-Japan Alliance is second to none.” He continued, “I deeply appreciate the critical assistance of the Japanese and Okinawan governments, which helped ensure the fire was brought under control quickly and without any serious injuries to American or Japanese personnel. It’s clear that the operation’s success was a result of the regular emergency- and disaster-response training our two nations conduct together.”
Two American sailors were treated for minor injuries at the ship's medical clinic but have since returned to duty.
“I am relieved to hear the sailors have returned to duty, and I thank them for their dedicated service and bravery,” Ambassador Glass added.