In Torii Station there was a common US Japan Wildland fire training

The US Army Garrison Okinawa Fire Department and Nirai Fire Department has announced that on March 11, 2025, they took part in a joint training exercise on the Torii station to the forces.

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.

Fire brigade and emergency services, Garrison Okinawa of the US Army, statement by Dean Turner

Dean Turner, a fire brigade and rescue service at Garrison Okinawa of the US Army: “Cross training with our Host Nation Partners is crucial for the establishment of rapport, the guarantee of interoperability and improving reaction times for both departments.

“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.

Turner said: “Ultimately, cross training leads to safer and more effective emergency answers.

“It improves communication and coordination in emergencies, improves teamwork and facilitates the exchange of resources and specialist knowledge.”

Plans forward

This exercise represents only a part of the ongoing cooperation between the departments. Future plans include water rescue, medical training, flasser simulations and aircraft-live-fire exercises.

US-Japan Wildland Fire Training by Torii Station: Summary

The US Army Garrison Okinawa Fire Department and Nirai Fire Department organized a joint training exercise in the Torii station on March 11, 2025.