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Through a Different Lens
One Woman’s Experience in Vietnam, 1967-1968.
Frances Resnick Williams has led the life of an activist, often paving the way for other career women or working for equal employment rights. Born in Brooklyn, New York to Jewish immigrant parents, she has always fought for the underdog, which she credits to being raised in an orphanage. This passion was reflected during her 37-year career at the White Sands Missile Range, as she advanced to numerous positions that no woman had previously held, including a request to serve six months in Vietnam at the 14th Inventory Control Center on Long Binh Army Post.
Frances has been active in the Las Cruces community since she and her husband arrived in 1952. She was one of the founders of Temple Beth-El and has served on numerous local, state, and national commissions. Frances has received numerous awards including the Governor’s Award for Outstanding New Mexico Woman, the Governor’s New Mexico Distinguished Public Service Award, and the Las Cruces Sun News 2018 Distinguished Resident.
The Long Binh Army Post was the largest U.S. Army base in Vietnam, operating between 1965-1972. It was located 20 miles north of Saigon and was a logistical and command center for South Vietnam operations. With extensive hospital facilities, it also served as an important medical evaluation center for wounded soldiers. At some 22 square miles, it was a city unto itself with housing, postal services, post exchanges, utilities, and waste removal. The post also offered a wide range of recreation opportunities and clubs for service members. As part of the U.S. withdrawal agreements, Long Binh Post was turned over to the South Vietnamese military in 1972.
Exhibit Related Programming
Through a Different Lens: One Women's Experience in Vietnam
Las Cruces Veterans Memorial Park
Ms. Williams desired to honor Vietnam soldiers so she become involved in the development and installation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Click here
Temple Beth-El
Frances arranged for cookies to be sent to the servicemen and coordinated a Passover Seder service for Jewish servicemen. Click here
“Split the Sky and Shake the Earth” campaign
Saigon was fiercely attacked and symbolic targets such as the United States Embassy and Presidential Palace were high priority objectives. Click here
The Tet Offensive
Tet Offensive, it resulted in high casualties for civilians and military troops across South Vietnam.Click here
The 24th Evacuation Hospital at Long Binh Army Post
Ms. Williams tells about her time as a volunteer. Click here
Frances Williams
Ms. Williams shares her life and story. Click here