Arab News Japan

TOKYO: US Ambassador to Japan George Glass has commended the professionalism and bravery of the American and Japanese personnel who tackled the fire that broke out aboard the USS New Orleans, which was anchored near White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, on the afternoon of August 20.

 US sailors, supported by vessels from Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force and Coast Guard, extinguished the blaze aboard the US Navy amphibious transport dock ship after a 12-hourfirefighting operation.

 “The rapid, coordinated, and courageous response to the fire by American and Japanese teams shows, once again, why the US-Japan Alliance is second to none,” said Ambassador Glass today said in a statement issued by the embassy. “I deeply appreciate the critical assistance of the Japanese and Okinawan governments.”

 The fire was brought under control quickly and without any serious injuries to American or Japanese personnel. Glass attributed this success to the regular emergency and disaster-response training the two nations conduct on a frequent basis.

 Two American sailors, who were treated for minor injuries at the USS New Orleans’ medical clinic, have returned to full 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.