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History of Naval Hospital Yokosuka

Naval Hospital Yokosuka was established in 1950 to serve the United States Navy and allied forces in the Western Pacific region. Located at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, it played a critical role in providing medical care during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, treating both combat casualties and military families. Over the decades, the hospital expanded its capabilities, supporting humanitarian missions and joint exercises with Japanese and allied forces. Today, Naval Hospital Yokosuka remains a key medical facility for U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific, offering advanced healthcare and supporting regional security and readiness.

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ABOUT 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.

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