U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka and JSDF Hospital Yokosuka deepen medical partnership with joint casualty drill

YOKOSUKA, Japan — Medical personnel from U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Yokosuka and Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) Hospital Yokosuka conducted an annual bilateral mass casualty drill on March 11 to sharpen joint medical response and lifesaving procedures.

Speaking to participants and distinguished visitors after observing initial triage operations, Capt. Donavon YapShing, deputy director of USNH Yokosuka, underscored the exercise’s broader significance. “This exercise is more than just a training scenario; it is a powerful demonstration of our shared commitment to peace, stability, and a free and open Indo-Pacific,” YapShing said. “The alliance between the United States and Japan is the cornerstone of security in this region. Our partnership is built on a foundation of shared values, mutual respect, and a deep understanding that we are stronger together.”

Lt. Gary Clemons, acting associate director for Readiness and Training, highlighted the operational benefits for combined medical teams. “This joint training is invaluable,” Clemons said. “It allows us to refine our communication and procedural alignment, ensuring our combined medical teams can deliver life-saving care seamlessly when called upon.”

The scenario brought a simulated surge of casualties, beginning with coordinated triage. USNH Yokosuka personnel supported translation between JSDF and U.S. Navy teams to maintain clear communication. The drill progressed to surgical settings, where integrated teams executed hands-on orthopedic work, including patient movement, surgical coordination, and cross-team communication.

A specialized “cut suit,” a wearable surgical simulator used by a live role player, provided an immersive environment. Featuring layered synthetic tissues, simulated bleeding, and anatomically accurate injuries, the platform enabled teams to practice incisions, control hemorrhage, and manage wounds in real time. “We use the cut suit to replicate complex trauma cases our surgeons could encounter in an operational environment,” Clemons said. “It gives our teams the opportunity to train on realistic injuries, make decisions under pressure, and refine their surgical techniques in a controlled but highly dynamic setting.”

The hands-on format is designed to integrate surgical skills with communication and teamwork, bridging the gap between classroom instruction and real-world casualty care. “It’s one of the most effective tools we have to build surgical readiness,” Clemons added. “By training alongside our JSDF partners in this environment, we strengthen not only our clinical proficiency, but also our ability to operate as a unified medical force.”

Observers included Vice Adm. Koji Yagi, commandant, Yokosuka District; Dr. Eiji Hinoshita, director general for health and medicine, Minister’s Secretariat, Ministry of Defense; Rear Adm. Takehito Sawamura, surgeon general and director of medicine, Maritime Staff Office, Ministry of Defense; and Rear Adm. Koji Matsuzaki, commander, JSDF Hospital Yokosuka.

Following his remarks, YapShing led a commemorative coin presentation with distinguished guests before the surgical portion began. Addressing the joint team, he said, “Your expertise, your dedication and your commitment to this mission are what make our combined medical forces second to none.”

Organizers characterized the drill’s successful completion as a reflection of the strength of the U.S.–Japan alliance and a shared commitment to medical readiness, with both forces focused on remaining prepared to respond jointly to future crises.