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| Photo By Lance Cpl. Tayler Schwamb | CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan –The burnt remains of a house that caught fire March 1 stands in Shimabuku, Kitanaka, Okinawa, Japan. The Marine Corps Installation Pacific and Marine Corps Butler Japan, Fire and Emergency Services firefighters were called upon by the local fire department to help put out the fire. The firefighters were recognized for their actions in recovering numerous personal items including passports, a cherished wedding ring, and official documents. (Courtesy Photo) |
05.03.2017
Story by Lance Cpl. Tayler Schwamb
Marine Corps Installations Pacific
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CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan—Firefighters with Fire and Emergency Services Marine Corps Installation Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Japan, Fire and Emergency Services were presented with a certificate of commendation by Maj. Gen. Joaquin F. Malavet May 3 aboard Camp Foster.
The certificate was presented in recognition of exceptional performance of duties in response to a structure fire in Shimabuku, Kitanaka Village.
On the night of March 1, the MCIPAC firefighters provided mutual aid to the local fire department. By the time that the firefighters had arrived, the fire had already consumed the house, but the local departments and MCIPAC fire combined their manpower and were able to save the surrounding neighborhood from catching fire.
“The house was leveled, there was nothing but ash,” said John E. Roush, the assistant fire chief at MCIPAC. “In the middle of the night they lost everything, but we made sure no one else did.”
Yet, the selfless actions the following day were even more noteworthy.
In the days following this incident, their efforts to care personally for the needs of this displaced family went far and above the call of duty, according to Malavet. It resulted in the recovery of several items of immense emotional and intrinsic value, including a cherished wedding ring, passports, and important documents.
None of this would have been possible without their personal commitment to do the right thing.
"The professionalism, commitment and absolute courage demonstrated by the MCIPAC Fire and Emergency Services was simply extraordinary!” said Malavet, commanding general of MCIPAC. “In fact, their genuine love for people and deep connection to the local community is what drives their passion for service. Simply stated, their purpose is to save lives and they are the very best.”
