The New Mexico Military Museum in partnership with Alkemē and Collected Works is proud to present a special lecture series commemorating the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War

Please join us on April 30, 2025, for an opening reception at 5PM with lecture series to follow at 6PM.

This series will explore the diverse impact of the conflict through three compelling perspectives—global, combat, and local. Featuring the story of a refugee who fled during the fall of Saigon.  The experience of a New Mexican Vietnam War combat veteran and the powerful account from the New Mexico home front, featuring an NCO who served as a Casualty Assistance Officer, supporting families who lost loved ones.

The evacuees were taken to the Sixth Fleet the day before Saigon fell to the Communists, April 29, 1975

In Partnership with Collected Works, we are hosting, Christina Vo and her father Nghia M. Vo.  Christina is a Santa Fe-based author whose work delves into themes such as loss, intergenerational trauma, healing, identity, and the notions of home and reconciliation. Her second book, My Vietnam, Your Vietnam, is an intergenerational memoir co-written with her father. Christina is also the author of The Veil Between Two Worlds: A Memoir of Silence, Loss, and Finding Home. With a background in international work, Christina has experience at UNICEF, the World Economic Forum, and various nonprofits. She currently works at Stanford University and holds an MSc from the London School of Economics. Visit her at christinavo.com to learn more. 

Her father Nghia M. Vo is a retired physician, independent researcher, and author specializing in Vietnamese history and culture. He has written extensively on Vietnam’s past and the Vietnamese-American experience, contributing to conferences and publications that document this rich heritage. His books include The Vietnamese Boat People, Saigon: A History, and My Vietnam, Your Vietnam.

Sal Soto, Retired Chief Warrant Officer 5, served with distinction in a number of critical roles throughout his military career. He previously held the position of Museum Director and Curator, where he played a vital role in preserving and sharing the history of the New Mexico National Guard. From 1966 to 1970, Sal was selected to serve as an NCO for Casualty Assistance, specifically chosen to work with New Mexico families due to his bilingual skills and cultural understanding. His ability to provide compassionate support during times of loss made a lasting impact on countless military families across the state. He retired from the New Mexico National Guard with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5, the highest rank achievable for a warrant officer, capping off a distinguished and dedicated military career.

We’re excited to feature a special menu presentation by local Vietnamese chef and Alkemē restaurant owner, Hue-Chan Karels. Based in Santa Fe, Hue-Chan brings her vibrant culinary artistry and cultural heritage to the event, offering guests a unique and flavorful experience.

The menu will include Bánh Hỏi Thịt Nướng — woven rice vermicelli rolls with grilled lemongrass pork, Vietnamese pickles, fresh lettuce, herbs, and traditional nước chấm dipping sauce (gluten-free, dairy-free).  For dessert, guests will enjoy a rich Miso Brown Butter Sesame Brownie topped with Miso Orange Whipped Cream — a perfect fusion of bold flavors and textures.

www.newmexicomilitarymuseum.com

1050 Old Pecos Trail, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505