Emmett R. Riggs

Emmett R. Riggs, 88, formerly of Iowa Park, passed away on Monday, April 8.

Military graveside services were held Tuesday, April 16, at noon at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City, under the direction of Buchanan Funeral Service.

Riggs was born Sept. 2, 1931, to Ray and Eula Mae Riggs and grew up in Pam-pa. He was a sergeant in the Korean War, US Army 25th Infantry Division, 1st Battalion, where he earned several medals, including the Purple Heart, National Defense, Korean Service, Good Conduct and Combat Infantry Badge. He was Chief of Intelligence Recon Scouts, and wounded in Sept, 1952 near Heartbreak Ridge. He fought in battles at Bloody Ridge, Iron Triangle and Chorwon-Porkchop Hill, and also earned three Bronze Stars for his bravery. In his later years, he was appointed as an insurance investigator for the State of Oklahoma, before retiring. He was a member of The Military Order Of The Purple Heart, Oklahoma City Chapter 568, and served as Aide-de-camp to the National Commander. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and rode over 70,000 miles on trips across the country with his closest friend.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Tommy Riggs; wife, Ethel Riggs; and his former wife, Joyce Ensey.

Survivors include two sons, Perry Riggs of Richmond, and Brad Riggs of Oakland, FL.; a daughter, Kelly Riggs of Fort Worth; six grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.