sketches & camouflage

Having grown up during WWII, I recall fondly the days I spent with “Popper Earl.” Each month, we would read his American Legion Magazine together. I was fortunate to know this man and to learn about his military career — one that spanned two wars.

“Popper Earl” was Earl Albright Riggs. Born on January 16, 1888, in Asbury Park, New Jersey, he was the only child of Addison Henry and Nora Albright Riggs. Apparently, patriotism flowed in the family. During a time where posing for a photograph was still a somewhat formal and unusual affair, Earl’s parents saw fit to have their young son’s photograph taken in various military and historic uniforms.

Earl grew up working in the family business, an excursion boat rental, food, and tackle business on