Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
May 8, 2009
Officer Gary R. Wiggins
Boise Police Department

On September 20, 1997, at approximately 1:20 a.m., Boise Police Officer Gary Wiggins responded to a call to assist at a traffic stop in the parking lot of the Rider’s Bar in downtown Boise. The two men in the automobile, brothers Craig and Doug Brodrick, defied nearly every command given to them by Boise Police Officers Bryan Hagler and Stephen Van Doren. With Officers Dale Rogers, Ron Winegar, Gary Wiggins, Mark Stall, and Rob Berrier present, Craig Brodrick was commanded three times to raise his jacket and turn around. Each time, he responded, “I don’t think so!” Sweeping his jacket back, he drew a gun from a holster on his hip and began shooting at the officers, hitting Officer Winegar. A gun battle ensued. Doug Brodrick emerged from the passenger door of the automobile and opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Stall. Refusing to retreat under heavy fire, Officer Wiggins played a vital role in bringing the threat to an end. Officer Wiggins held his ground and continued to fight under the worst of circumstances until the threat was neutralized. Officer Wiggins’ resolute spirit and extraordinary courage in the face of extreme danger and his profound concern for his fellow officers, without regard for his own life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Boise Police Department and of Idaho law enforcement and reflect great credit upon himself, the Boise Police Department, and all Idaho law enforcement officers.

Read Officer Gary Wiggins’s Official Medal of Honor Citation >>>