Briggs to be honored on Rose Parade float

By TOM FAHEY
State House Bureau Chief | Union Leader

Slain Manchester Police Officer Michael Briggs will be honored by the New England Organ Donor Bank in the Rose Parade on New Year's Day .

Briggs, shot to death while on duty in October 2006, had expressed wishes before his murder to be an organ donor. His wife, Laura, carried through on those wishes and agreed to donate organs that helped five people in need of transplants.

Briggs' floragraph portrait will be one of 60 on a Donate Life float in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif. The float is sponsored by the New England Organ Bank and affiliated organ donation groups around the country.

Richard Leskin, president of the NEOB, said the parade "is a unique opportunity to catch the attention of the public."

It is seen by 1 million people along its route, and by TV audiences in 150 countries.

On Thursday, Gov. John Lynch said Briggs' consideration for others continues to pay benefits.

Lynch said Briggs dedicated his life to other people, as a U.S. Marine, corrections officers, police officer and a family man.

"Michael Briggs is a lasting example, I believe, of what true selflessness is all about," Lynch said. "Michael Briggs lives on in the hearts and minds, not only of his family and friends, but also in those individuals to whom he gave his organs."

Briggs's widow and her sons, Brian and Mitchell, yesterday put finishing touches on the floragraph that will be mounted on the float.

Laura Briggs said she feels she made the right choice at a difficult time when her husband was shot on patrol. His killer has been sentenced to death.

"To have the ability to save other people is amazing. As much as I didn't like accepting what was happening to us -- I don't know if I really have -- but you just can't go back and do it again," Mrs. Briggs said. "You have one chance to do that and I didn't want to pass that up, that's for sure, and I know Mike wouldn't have wanted to."

Her older son, Brian, said, "I feel honored by this, because it saved five lives."