Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Awarded on:

October 1943

"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of a Destroyer Squadron during the action against enemy naval forces off the Komandorski Islands on 26 March 1943. Captain Riggs, with brilliant leadership, engaged in a fierce running battle for three and one-half hours. His bold attack against a Japanese force, twice the strength of his own, was a deciding factor in thwarting the enemy's attempt to deliver urgently needed supplies to troops in the Aleutian Islands. Captain Riggs' conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 319

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Rear Admiral

Unit:

U.S.S. South Dakota (BB-57), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

May 1946

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA from 18 March 1944 to 30 November 1944."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 350

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Rear Admiral

Unit:

U.S.S. South Dakota (BB-57), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

June 1946

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA in action against enemy forces in the South West Pacific from 18 March 1944 to 30 November 1944."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 351 (second LoM received as Gold Star on ribbon)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Rear Admiral

Unit:

Cruiser Division 12, U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

June 1946

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Cruiser Division TWELVE and a cruiser/destroyer task group in operation against the enemy-held Philippine-Borneo area from 5 December 1944 to 7 July 1945."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 351 (third LoM received as second Gold Star on ribbon)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)