Robert David Briggs

submitted by: Bennett Briggs

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Robert was born on September 15, 1931. He was born in Hailey, Idaho. He was a farmer in his early life. He learned the value of hard work as a kid on the farm. Robert had a good education. He graduated with a Masters Degree in Education Administration from the University of Idaho. He taught at the local high school. That is where he met his wife, Diana. They went on to have four kids, eleven grandkids, and twenty-four great-grandkids. I am one of his great-grandkids.

He had an interest in playing golf, and he liked learning about many subjects. He was very smart and loved to read. He read at least one book a week.

Another interesting fact is that he was a hero in WWII, in Burma, India, and in China. One thing that amazes me and maybe others is that he fought in WWII and was the bodyguard for General Stillwell. He had to take an Oath of Allegiance to General Stillwell which means he would have to take a bullet for General Stillwell. He earned both a Purple Heart with a Silver Star, and the Distinguished Service Medal.

When they were in the jungle and they would go through the water, leeches would stick to their legs. When they were stuck, he would use cigarettes to get them off. They were each given one or two packs of cigarettes and he didn't smoke, so he would give them to other soldiers. He would use the rest for the leeches if needed. After the end of the war, he returned back home to Idaho.

As an adult, Robert ran for State Senator because he wanted to serve for the State of Idaho. He also was a dedicated father, husband and grandpa. To him, family was the most important thing all the time.