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Capt Briggs joined the National Guard in New York City, New York on 16 September 1940 as a private first class. He attended high school for 4 years and was a clerk in civil life.

Capt Briggs met his wife in London in 1942 and they were married March 18, 1944, just a few months before he led his men ashore in Normandy on D-Day.

He was awarded the Silver Star twice for gallantry in action in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division in the North African Theater.

The citiation for his DSC stated: 'The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Victor H. Briggs (ASN: 0-1286079), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. In the initial assault against the coast of France, Captain Briggs, with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself to heavy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire while leading his men ashore from the landing craft. He further exposed himself to this heavy fire, when, after reaching the beach, he organized an assault team from the groups of troops pinned down by the merciless fire. He then personally led this assault team through a dense enemy mine field and into a strategic position on the slope of a hill. Though attacked by superior numbers, he successfully defended this position until additional troops were moved forward. The tenacity of purpose and courage displayed by Captain Briggs exemplifies the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.'

He received the Distinguished Service Cross from General Dwight D. Eisenhower on 17 November 1944.

Capt Briggs died leading his men in the big push into the Hurtgen Forest, Germany.

The Bronze Star, posthumously given in London by Brig. Gen. F.S. Strong in 1945 to his son Victor III, was given for gallantry during the campaign in Algiers in 1942.