Overview

• U.S. 7th Fleet said the blaze began late Wednesday afternoon near the White Beach Naval Facility and was declared out early Thursday after overnight efforts.
• Japan Coast Guard and Maritime Self-Defense Force units aided the crew, along with sailors from the nearby USS San Diego, and the ship’s crew remains aboard.
• Two sailors sustained minor injuries and were treated in the ship’s medical spaces, according to Navy statements.
• No Marines were embarked at the time of the incident, the Marine Corps confirmed.
• Initial accounts indicate multiple forward and mid decks near the bow were affected, and the event heightens scrutiny of amphibious-ship readiness, recently assessed at about 41%.