Naval Hospital Yokosuka

• Oldest Continuously Operating U.S. Naval Hospital in the Western Pacific: Naval Hospital Yokosuka was established in 1950, making it the oldest continuously operating U.S. Navy hospital in the Western Pacific region. • Built on Historic Grounds: The hospital is located on the site of a former Japanese Imperial Navy Hospital, tying its grounds to both Japanese and American naval history. • Korean War Origins: The hospital was founded during the Korean War to provide medical support for U.S. and allied forces operating in the region. • Disaster Response Hub: Naval Hospital Yokosuka played a crucial role in the aftermath of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, providing emergency care and humanitarian assistance. • First U.S. Navy Hospital to Earn International Accreditation in Japan: In 2008, it became the first U.S. Navy hospital in Japan to receive Joint Commission International accreditation, ensuring high standards of patient care. • Multi-National Patient Base: The hospital serves not only U.S. service members and their families but also personnel from allied navies, including the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force and other partner nations. • Birthplace of Thousands: Over the decades, thousands of American children have been born at NH Yokosuka, making it a place of special significance for many military families stationed in Japan. • Support During Vietnam War: Naval Hospital Yokosuka acted as a critical evacuation and treatment point for wounded U.S. personnel during the Vietnam War. • Historic Buildings: Some original structures from the Japanese Imperial era still exist on the base, blending Japanese architectural heritage with modern U.S. military medical facilities. • Symbol of U.S.-Japan Alliance: The hospital is a visible and vital symbol of the U.S.-Japan alliance, regularly hosting joint training exercises and medical exchanges between the two nations’ militaries.