DVIDS -News -Torii Station organizes common US -Japan -Wildland -Feuer training

Torii Station, Okinawa, Japan – The fire brigade of Garrison Okinawa and the fire department of Nirai teamed up on March 11, 2025 for a critical training exercise at the Torii station. The training focused on improving the security and interoperability of the fire brigade during a simulated wildland fire.

Firefighters fought against the simulated fire and navigated the complexity of the replenishment of the fire apparatus, with the equipment adhering to two different country specifications. This exercise underlined the importance of regular training with Host Nation Partners.

“Cross-training with our Host Nation Partners is crucial for the establishment of reports, the guarantee of interoperability and the improvement of the reaction times for both departments,” said Dean Turner, fire brigade and emergency services boss for the US Army Garrison Okinawa. “This training ensures that we are ready to protect the community together during a real emergency.”
The simulated environment offered a valuable opportunity to safely move for communication and device challenges.

“In the end, cross training leads to safer and more effective emergency answers,” said Turner. “It improves communication and coordination in emergencies, improves teamwork and facilitates the exchange of resources and specialist knowledge.”

This exercise is only part of the ongoing cooperation between the departments. Future plans include water rescue, medical training, flasser simulations and aircraft live fires.