FORT STEWART, Ga. </B>-- Fort Stewart's Officer and Enlisted Spouses Clubs got a taste of true Southern flavor, as the famous Food Network duo of Jamie and Bobby Deen - sons of the Lady herself, Paula Deen - joined the group for a special book-signing event, Jan. 14.
Spouses were able to purchase the brothers' newly-released cookbook, "The Deen Bros. Take it Easy," and get a personalized autograph and photo with the stars.
"It's always fun to meet someone you see on TV," said Chelle James, spouse of Col. Tom James, 3rd Infantry Division chief of staff. "Having the Deen brothers come visit is a great way for the spouses club to connect with the community and bring some extra excitement."
The event was the brainchild of Becky Aiton, spouse of Lt. Col. Steve Aiton, G1 (Personnel), who met the brothers at an event and coordinated the visit.
"I met the Deen brothers at a book signing they did at Barnes and Noble in Savannah," said Becky Aiton. "A lot of people were asking about them at Fort Stewart, so I got in touch with their manager to see if they'd be interested in talking to the spouses here. A lot of our spouses are deployed, and I thought it would be a good morale-booster to have them visit."
After enjoying a Southern-style luncheon with the spouses club members, the Deen brothers took center stage to share their success story, while also expressing thanks to the Soldiers and Families at Fort Stewart.
"We live in the greatest country in the world," said Bobby, the younger of the two. "We truly appreciate everything you and your spouses do for our country."
"We thank y'all for having us out here today," Jamie added in his Savannah drawl. "We are thankful for our military and for the opportunity to come out here and show our appreciation. They couldn't do it without you all here to support them."
The brothers also took questions from the audience, responding with some lively stories about food, their Families and, of course, their mother.
Bobby and Jamie explained how their mother overcame many challenges, fears and obstacles to become one of the country's most successful chefs.
They reminisced about starting the Family business at home, with Paula as a single mother, moving around frequently and working long hours. They also recalled the day Paula purchased an old bookstore in downtown Savannah that would one day become the city's most popular restaurant - The Lady and Sons.
"Our story and our mother's story gives people hope - it shows that anything is possible," Bobby said.
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