Frederick Charles Riggs

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Frederick Charles Riggs
Born 28 July 1888
Bournemouth, Dorset
Died 1 October 1918 (aged 30)
Near Epinoy, France
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch British Army
Rank Sergeant
Unit The York and Lancaster Regiment
Battles/wars World War I
Awards Victoria Cross
Military Medal

Frederick Charles Riggs VC MM (28 July 1888 – 1 October 1918) was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Early life

He was born in Springbourne, Bournemouth, and was adopted by Mrs G. Burgum when he was about five years old.[1] He grew up in Charminster and was one of three VC winners from Charminster.[2]

Details

Riggs was 30 years old, and a Sergeant in the 6th Battalion, The York and Lancaster Regiment, British Army during the First World War at the battle of the Canal du Nord when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 1 October 1918 near Epinoy, France, Sergeant Riggs, having led his platoon through strong uncut wire under severe fire, continued straight on and although losing heavily from flanking fire, succeeded in reaching his objective, where he captured a machine-gun. Later he handled two captured guns with great effect and caused 50 of the enemy to surrender. Subsequently, when the enemy again advanced in force, Sergeant Riggs cheerfully encouraged his men exhorting them to resist to the last, and while doing so was killed.[3]

The medal

His Victoria Cross is displayed at The York & Lancaster Regiment Museum, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, England.

References

  1. ↑ "Sgt. Riggs V.C.". BURGUM FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Journal 34. 1998. 
  2. ↑ "Wartime Heroes from Charminster". Retrieved January 18, 2013. 
  3. ↑ CWGC entry

External links

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