On Saturday, March 9th, the cub scouts of Den 7, family members, and friends visited the Negishi Fire Station, which is operated by the U.S. Armed Forces Japan. The station's commander, Dave White, and his firefighters opened their doors to our group and gave us a rare glimpse of life in a real fire station. We saw the dispatch center, sleeping and eating facilities, and the exercise room, which the boys especially liked.

The main event, however, was the fire engines of course. Dave and his crew showed us all around the fire trucks, and one of his men demonstrated how a firefighter prepares for a fire. Very interesting!! The crew then simulated an emergency call and dispatched a fire engine and crew from the station. The engine pulled in next to the station and our group was invited to man a fire hose and let loose some water!! As you can imagine, the kids (and adults) really enjoyed that. Finally, the scouts were allowed to climb in the engine and see what a real fireman sees (and honk the horn, of course).

It was a wonderful day for the Den 7 scouts, family, and friends, and we want to thank Dave White and his crew for the warm hospitality and most excellent tour. I know that our group will not soon forget this experience!!