Rob Giardinelli
New Exhibit Delves Into One Of The Most Turbulent Periods Of The Vietnam War
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Ben Porter Photography
In March of 1968, the Vietnam War was at a pivotal moment. The first phase of the Tet Offensive was in full swing, which caused extreme levels of chaos on the ground, where soldiers were immersed in relentless, persistent combat. The United States government was also in turmoil with Texas native President Lyndon Baines Johnson and his top advisors on the receiving end of dissent, protest, and political turmoil.
On television every night, Americans were served daily reminders of the toll that this brutal combat was taking on their fathers, sons, friends, and neighbors who were serving nearly 10,000 miles from home. The result of this was public opinion ultimately turning against the war.
Under this historical context, a fascinating new exhibit has recently opened at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin. Ain’t No Daylight In Vietnam chronicles the many historic moments that happened during March 1968, a watershed month of the Vietnam War from those who experienced it first-hand. The exhibit will allow visitors to fully understand the daily struggles and realities faced by soldiers, medics, and civilians.
The exhibit highlights the emotional toll the war took on the American psyche from a combat, political, and social perspective. To offer solace for those who might be overcome with emotion reliving this tumultuous time in American history, the Museum offers several spaces just outside of the exhibit where attendees can quietly reflect.
Additionally, the exhibit will also include the unveiling of the LBJ Presidential Library’s newest permanent addition to their collection: a piece of the Vietnam Memorial Wall from Washington, D.C. Situated outside of the exhibit entrance is Panel 44, one of the 146 granite slab panels etched in the early 1980’s when the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was erected.
Ain’t No Daylight In Vietnam is on display through August 10, 2025. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit LBJLibrary.org.
