This Run/Walk is held in Loving Memory of PFC Wesley R. Riggs, beloved son of Ms. Gayle McDermott and Mr. Daniel Riggs, and graduate of Barbers Hill High School.
Wesley Riggs was a “quiet presence,” a pensive man with blue eyes that would put Paul Newman to shame. “It made you wonder what he was up to,” said family friend BJ McCoy. Growing up on the Gulf Coast, Wesley Riggs was always fond of the water and frequently went rafting with friends. He loved working on cars, fishing, camping and riding dirt bikes. He was a connoisseur of “Southern fun,” said BJ’s husband, Gary. Riggs and his cohorts would tear through the closest mud field in a big-wheeled truck. “They would go muddin’ or riding any kind of motorized anything that could go fast,” McCoy said. “They could make a party out of just about any day.” He finished high school in 2003 after just three years. His decision to join the military was “an organized plan,” said his stepmother, Vicki Riggs. “He was a real Southerner,” she said. “And he was raised by two Yankees.”
Pfc. Wesley R. Riggs, 19, of Baytown, Texas died May 17 in Tikrit, Iraq, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted position. Riggs was assigned to the Army’s 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
Wesley came home to rest at the National Cemetery in Houston, Texas May 25, 2005. At the Mass, Wesley’s family received Wesley’s two commendations — the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He also received the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal and Army Service Ribbon. Our Hero was given full military honor funeral that rivaled the funeral of President Reagan.
The duly elected representatives and senators of Texas rallied round the family! A flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol in Wes’ honor. This same flag was then delivered to the family at a town Memorial for Wes that Sunday by a Texas representative.
The soldiers in his division had a memorial in Iraq and told stories of Wes and their thoughts! It’s is extremely hard on the ones still fighting on in a fallen soldier’s division. God Bless them and all the others serving around the world from all countries fighting for and protecting freedom!
Wes took great pride in serving his country in Iraq. It was what he wanted to do. His main concern was the children, where most have newspapers for shoes.
A Memorial has been set up in Beach City for him.
This is a great cause, so everyone join in through participation in the event, sponsoring a child, or volunteering to help. We have something for everyone to do.
Bob Botto, Race Manager and Chairman, and Jerren Young, Route and Route Safety Chairman
Old River-Winfree Community News 
We miss you so much!! You filled my girls life with such fun and happiness. We were so blessed to have had you in our life! We love you Wes.