Firefighter Yu Nakazawa from Navy Region Japan, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, a Japanese national, was selected as the Department of Defense (DoD) Civilian Firefighter of the Year for 2016.

Nakazawa, who was the Navy's Civilian Firefighter of the Year, learned of his selection as DOD's best in a memorandum released May 17.

"Bravo Zulu and congratulations to Mr. Nakazawa," said Vice Adm. Mary M. Jackson, commander of Navy Installations Command. "Being identified by your peers as the 'Best in DoD' is a remarkable achievement; we are delighted for him and feel so fortunate to have him in the CNIC enterprise."

Nakazawa was recognized for several accomplishments, including a Life Saving Award earned for saving the life of a person who had gone into cardiac arrest, and responding to a dry dock fire and extinguishing fires from cars and vending machines which prevented damage to other vehicles and a warehouse. His quick actions saved the Navy $38 million in damages and prevented further disaster.

Additionally, he coordinated a chemical warfare disaster drill with fire, police and medical agencies in Japan, bringing 43 organizations and 850 first responders together.

"All of us in Navy Region Japan are very proud of Mr. Nakazawa. He represents the very best of what a firefighter should be," said Rear Adm. Matthew Carter, Commander Navy Region Japan. "Each of our 376 American and Japanese Fire and Emergency Services personnel are highly professional and dedicated to the safety of our installations and our communities."

Fire and Emergency Services personnel carry out vital duties to support the mission of our installations and facilities. Dedicated to the protection of life, property and the environment, these professionals often put their own lives at risk to protect those who defend America.

Navy Installations Command is comprised of approximately 53,000 military and civilian personnel worldwide responsible for the operations, maintenance, and quality of life programs to support the Navy's fleet, fighters, and their families.

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