Blue Plaque (Riggs)

Sgt. Frederick Charles Riggs (1888-1918) was another recipient of the Victoria Cross. Born in Springbourne, Bournemouth, he was adopted by Elizabeth Burgum when he was about five years old and resided at 39 Capstone Road and attended what is now know as Malmesbury Park Primary School. The school also holds a metal plaque to commemorate Sgt. Riggs (see tour point 19).

Riggs fought in Gallipoli and in Egypt to later be severely wounded in the head at the Battle of Somme. He returned to fight in France but was unfortunately killed on October 1, 1918. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, as The London Gazette (January 3, 1919) stated that he bravely led his platoon through severe fire and "handled two captured guns with great effect, and caused the surrender of fifty enemy". Unfortunately, the enemy began to advance again and he was killed whilst encouraging his men to resist the enemy.

In Wallisdown, 'Riggs Gardens' is also named after Riggs to commemorate the fallen soldier. As well, another memorial is located in Bournemouth Gardens alongside fellow VC recipient, Cpl. Cecil Noble, to honour their service.