Deployed Lawrence, Indiana soldier with 38th ID promoted to captain

Photo By Master Sgt. Jeff Lowry | Indiana National Guard Capt. Eric J. Riggs, of Lawrence and a 38th Infantry Division signal officer who serves in the personnel section, receives his new rank during a ceremony at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Wednesday, July 10, 2019. The division's headquarters battalion commander, Lt. Col. Gary A. Blagburn, of Fishers, promoted Riggs from first lieutenant to captain.  

KUWAIT

08.01.2019

Story by Master Sgt. Jeff Lowry 

38th Infantry Division

Indiana National Guard Capt. Eric J. Riggs, of Lawrence and a 38th Infantry Division signal officer who serves in the personnel section, receives his new rank during a ceremony at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Wednesday, July 10, 2019.

Riggs, a native of Brownstown, has served in the Indiana National Guard for 16 years and joined the military for the experience and college support.

"The military has given me the opportunity to grow in ways I never thought possible when I was younger. It has pushed me physically and mentally to become a better person while providing a support network for my family and me," said Riggs.

Riggs thought of his spouse during his promotion ceremony.

"I wish my wife would have been there to pin me. She was instrumental in me becoming an officer," he said.

The division's headquarters battalion commander, Lt. Col. Gary A. Blagburn, of Fishers, promoted Riggs from first lieutenant to captain.

The two Indiana, Cyclone Division soldiers left the Hoosier State in May and now serve in support of Task Force Spartan in the Middle East to provide leadership, command, control, and in-depth staff analysis for Operation Spartan Shield.

• Date Taken: 08.01.2019
• Date Posted: 08.01.2019 09:40
• Story ID: 334015
• Location: KW