Graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1922,[1] he served prior to World War II in battleships, destroyers and other surface ships, as well as on periodic shore duty.

Promoted to captain in mid-1942, during the rest of World War II he led several destroyer units in combat in the Central Solomons, off Iwo Jima and Okinawa and during raids on Japan.

[3] For his "aggressive and brilliant leadership" during this battle, as well as his "extraordinary heroism and distinguished service" during the preceding New Georgia Campaign, Higgins was awarded the Navy Cross.

Despite repeated attacks by hostile aircraft, submarines, and shore batteries, Commander Higgins handled his ships with such distinguished ability that the transport unloaded and retired without damage.

Participating in the Second Battle of Kula Gulf, on the night of 12–July 13, Commander Higgins displayed aggressive and brilliant leadership, contributing materially to the complete destruction of four and probably six enemy vessels.

At the commencement of hostilities, Rear Admiral Higgins, as the only subordinate Flag Officer Afloat in this area, was solely responsible for effecting Naval coordination with friendly ground forces and, during the difficult early days of the conflict, continued to perform this vital function.

Rear Admiral Higgins also directed the sustained bombardment of strong enemy shore installations at Inch'on, Korea, which was completely effective and contributed a large measure of success to this difficult operation.