The Dallas Woman’s Forum is honored to have Maj. General James Williams, USMC (Retired), present the fascinating history of the First World War. The presentation entitled, “Two Shots That Ignited a World War: How an 18 year old Student Changed the World Forever” shares a fascinating story. On June 28, 1914 an 18 year old student, assassinated the heir to the Austro Hungarian throne, Archduke Ferdinand and his wife. As a result, a month later, the First World War began. When it ended, the impact of the War changed the world forever, and affected the next generation, with the eventual path into World War II.

General Williams will cover the origins of the war, the spread throughout Europe, America’s eventual entry, the end of the Great War, and the War’s tragic impact to the future. In addition, we’ll hear a bit about the involvement of the Dallas Woman’s Forum with the War effort, before and after the U.S. joined in the fight.

About our Speaker

portrait of Maj. General James_L._WilliamsMajor General James L. Williams, USMC (Retired) served our country for 38 years in the military, with the United States Marine Corps. In 2010, he retired with the rank of Major General.

His lengthy, distinguished military career included the command of Marines at every level in combat operations and readiness. General Williams was last assigned as the Commanding General, 4th Marine Division and served on the Secretary of Defense’s Reserve Force Policy Board. Included in his military decorations are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, the Korea Defense Medal, and the National Defense Medal, to name a few.

During the Carter and Reagan Presidencies, Major General Williams served as a Military White House Social Aide. He was serving at The White House during the Middle East Peace talks between Israel and Egypt, the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Russians, the rescue attempt to free American hostages from Iran, and during the assassination attempt on President Reagan in 1981.

General Williams also serves on numerous business and philanthropic boards for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. In addition, he devotes time to champion the needs of Veterans and surviving spouses in the fight for obtaining the benefits and services they so rightfully deserve.

Event Details

Saturday, August 3, 2024
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Alexander Mansion
4607 Ross Ave, Dallas, Texas
Tickets $50 per person, reservations required
Purchase Tickets here: https://dallaswomansforum.org/eventer/world-war-i-commemoration-program-cocktail-reception/edate/2024-08-03/

Following the program, a commemorative reception will be held with beverages (including a signature World War I era cocktail), and hors d’oeuvres.