Yokota, Japanese firefighters dowse base fire

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YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) --  Yokota Air Base and Japanese firefighters fought a blaze at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service Japan about 6:30 p.m. Jan. 20 here, and there were no reports of any injuries. 

Five fire engines, two ladder trucks and a command vehicle from local fire departments as well as 38 firefighters assisted 30 Yokota AB 30 firefighters and their eight vehicles contain the fire to one single building. 

Firefighters from the Tokyo Metropolitan Fire Department were called to the scene at about 8 p.m. to assist Yokota AB firefighters. 

DFAS Japan is responsible for preparing payments for U.S. forces in the Western Pacific, and about 120 people normally worked in the building. The 40,143-square-foot building was built in 1948 and made of concrete, steel and wood. It is located about a quarter of mile inside the base from Route 16. The entire one-story building caught fire. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the one building.

"Cooperative efforts like this clearly illustrate the teamwork we've established with our Japanese neighbors," said Col. Jeff Newell, the 374th Airlift Wing commander. "We are thankful for our partnership with the surrounding communities their efforts greatly strengthened our response."

An investigation into the exact cause of the fire will be conducted. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest foul play.

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