HONOLULU, Hawaii -- The three-day Spouse Program at the Pacific Amphibious Leaders 2026, hosted by U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, from June 16-18, 2026, brought together military spouses from across the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen relationships, share experiences, and foster a deeper understanding of the vital role spouses play in supporting military readiness.
The program served as a platform for guided discussions, guest speakers, and cultural learning opportunities that highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities military families face while supporting service members throughout their careers.
Throughout the event, international military spouses gathered to exchange ideas, share personal experiences, and learn from one another. The discussions emphasized the common bonds shared among military families despite differences in culture, language, and national service traditions.
Denise Glynn, the spouse of U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James F. Glynn, the commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, welcomed participants to the program and encouraged open dialogue and collaboration among attendees.
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Photo by Lance Cpl. Audrie Nelson
International military spouses tour Iolani Palace during the spouse program as part of the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium 2026 in Honolulu, Hawaii, June 17, 2026. The relationships strengthened at PALS contribute to regional stability and crisis response capabilities, supporting mutual international interests. This year's symposium hosted senior leaders from 25 participating nations who are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, with the objective of strengthening and developing regional relationships. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Audrie Nelson)
Following opening remarks and introductions, participants discussed their individual cultures, the diversity represented throughout the Indo-Pacific region, and the meaning of the PALS motto, “Stronger Together,” in both their personal and military family experiences.
PALS is guided by this motto which emphasizes the importance of cooperation and coordination in addressing shared challenges, including natural disasters, complex security concerns, and other regional issues.
“We marry the military, that makes us strong and weak at the same time, and we’re different when we become mothers,” said one participant. “We just have to communicate and try to find solutions. All can be possible because we’re strong women, and we’re stronger together.”
With 25 participating countries represented at PALS26, the Spouse Program provided a unique opportunity for military spouses to build connections that transcend national boundaries and strengthen relationships among partner and allied nations.
Participants noted that while military organizations across the region may operate differently, many of the challenges faced by military families are remarkably similar.
“Every single branch in every single country, they do things so much differently,” said one participant. “But together, we all have the same struggles, the same problems, the same solutions.”
The PALS 2026 Spouse Program reinforced the importance of family support as a key component of military readiness and international partnership. By fostering dialogue and strengthening personal connections, the program helped build enduring relationships among military families throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
As the program concluded, participants reflected on the value of collaboration and the lasting bonds formed during the event. The relationships developed through engagements such as PALS contribute to greater understanding, cooperation, and trust among partners and allies, supporting a more stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.