Fun in Hawaii - Navy's Morale Welfare and Recreation department helps sailors enjoy state

All Hands, May, 2002 by Aaron Ansarov

RELATED ARTICLE: Making their traditional call to the four corners, these participants in the weekly luau at the military's Hale Koa resort hotel blow through their native conch shells, producing a distinctive horn sound.

* As the sun begins to set the palm trees become even more pronounced setting the mood for the Island night.

* One of the island's best military spots is what is known as the "Pearl of the Pacific." Centrally located just a couple miles from Pearl Harbor, the Navy-Marine Corps golf course is one of the finest military golf courses in the world. "This place is lovely," said Richard Yasuda, a National Gaurdsman stationed in Hawaii. "I try to come out about once a week."

* Retired Air Force Master Sgt. Richard Fiske is one of many survivors who daily donate their time to tell their story to the hundreds of visitors at the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Fiske was on the quarterdeck of USS West Virginia (BB 48) on that fateful December morning, more than 60 years ago.

* No visit to Hawaii is complete without a traditional luau. Known for its award-winning entertainment host, Danny Couch, the Hale Koa luau is filled with Hawaiian tradition in the lush Luau Garden.

* One of the military's hidden treasures are the cottages spread throughout the different bases. With some, like this one at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, renting for as low as $30 a night, these cottages have luxury views, and many are within walking distance to the beach. Friends and family members can enjoy their fantasy vacation while sticking to a tight budget.

* One of the finest hotels in Waikiki, the Hale Koa (Hawaiian for House of the Warrior), is an 817-room, world-class resort hotel, and favorite R&R destination for our country's military personnel. The Hale Koa's mission is simple: "To operate a first-class hotel and recreation facility at affordable prices for military members and their families."

* The night of Hale Koa's luau is filled with the art and tradition of Hawaii's many diverse cultures. Here, a group of women dance a traditional hula on stage, while the crowd enjoy's native dishes such as lomi lomi salmon and kalua pig.

* One of the many daily beauties of Hawaii is its majestic sunsets. Every one of them is different and awe-inspiring.

* Only someone who has been there, can know the feeling that comes from walking down the memorial, glancing at the sunken ship, and seeing the list of names at the end of the hall. "It is definitely something every person should see in their lifetime," said one visitor to the USS Arizona memorial.

A photojournalist formerly assigned to All Hands, Ansarov is now assigned to Fleet Combat Camera Pacific, in San Diego