SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii (Oct. 11, 2013) -- Hundreds of military spouses gathered to take part in the Joint Spouses' Conference, "Operation Hooah 2013."
Throughout the daylong conference, attendees enjoyed a variety of educational and hands-on workshops centering on activities and the adventure of living in Hawaii.
From sporting activities on the water in Waikiki to courses in culinary arts, painting and photography, as well as workshops in native Hawaiian culture, something for everyone was available at this year's conference.
"My goal was to introduce military spouses to the positive adventures of military life, to view this lifestyle as a challenge to consistently learn, grow and better themselves by taking full advantage of their surrounding, wherever their duty station may be," explained Sheila Johnson, director of JSC 2013.
Lori Tuite, conference participant and Army spouse, said the conference's presenters did an excellent job.
"Being able to meet other military spouses from across the island was great. I definitely learned a lot today and really enjoyed the cooking class and historical trolley tour," said Tuite.
The annual conference, which includes more than 25 different workshops, was capped off by an engaging talk from keynote speakers Gen. Vincent Brooks, commander, U.S. Army-Pacific, and his wife, Dr. Carol Brooks.
Dr. Brooks encouraged military spouses "to undertake what is necessary to survive as a military spouse by embracing the adventure that is this military life."
Gen. Brooks addressed the tough nature of the military spouse and the need for spouses to take time for themselves and their relationships.
Next year, the 20th annual JSC will be hosted by the Marine Corps.
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