Holly Francks, formerly Holly Turnage, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in December 1996 after attending college for a year and a half. She completed recruit training during a pivotal time of change for women within the Marine Corps, as training expanded to 12 weeks and incorporated enhanced Core Values instruction, combat skills, pugil sticks, and the 54-hour Crucible. As a member of P Company, Platoon 4009, Holly was part of one of the first two female platoons (4008 & 4009) to complete the Crucible alongside male platoons, meeting the same physical standards. Earning the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor at the conclusion of the Crucible remains one of her most meaningful and memorable accomplishments. Platoons 4008 & 4009 were also the first females integrated into Marine Combat Training at Camp Geiger, North Carolina with male Marines.

Trained as a Small Computer Systems Specialist, Holly served during a period of rapid technological advancement within the Marine Corps. She supported the transition to Microsoft Windows-based desktop and server systems. While stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, she played a key role in deploying and setting up early BlackBerry devices for base leadership.

On September 11, 2001, shortly after completing physical training, Holly and her fellow Marines learned of the attacks on the World Trade Center. Stationed at Camp Pendleton, she did not deploy overseas but worked extended hours in support of military operations during a critical time for the nation, helping ensure deployed forces had the support they needed.

Holly honorably separated from the Marine Corps in August 2005 at the rank of Sergeant (E-5). Following her military service, she continued her commitment to serving others as a computer teacher in the K–12 school system and later as a school counselor, impacting the lives of students and families in her community.