Brig. Gen. John Pogorek remembered by peer for leadership, as 'a farmer at heart'

PORTSMOUTH — Brig. Gen. Bill Davis is mourning the loss of his longtime friend, Brig. Gen. John Pogorek , who was killed this month in a tragic accident that is being called a hit and run.

Police are still investigating the incident.

"I will miss him," said Davis. "He was a great guy."

Pogorek was set to be laid to rest on Friday, beginning with military honors at Pease Air National Guard base, leading to a private burial at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen.

Davis said holding the viewing and service at the base reflects Pogorek's position as commander of the base. Plus, he said, a large contingent of mourners was expected.

"We think the governor is coming, and likely the congressional delegation as well and state and local dignitaries," Davis said. "Plus, the guard will have a large representation, and I expect many civilian attendees."

The ceremony reflects respect for Pogorek, who served for decades, at Pease since 1999. Davis said he loved what Pogorek accomplished, adding his admiration for Pogorek's second career, his passion for Red Gate Farm in Strafford. Pogorek operated the farm with his wife, Whitney.

"He was a farmer at heart," said Davis. "I go back a long way with him. We grew up together here in the Guard. When I think of him as a person, it's as a farmer. He was passionate about this.

"He would tell us stories of his escapees," said Davis. "He had a large number of animals, cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, chickens and turkeys, and sometimes someone would accidentally free themselves. Often, it involved help from the police and from neighbors. He loved to tell their stories, with cattle, it was sometimes days before they could get them back where they belonged."

Davis said the mood on the base at Pease following Pogorek's death has been somber.

"Those of us who grew up with him are feeling this," he said. "We know he was a good man, and there is a void left by his absence here. John will be remembered for his attention to the well-being of everyone on the base. Many of his initiatives were done in that direction, whether it was for those actively serving or our retired alumni population."

Davis said the 157th Air Refueling Wing planned to honor Pogorek on Friday.

"Maj. Gen. David J. Mikolaities will present his family with a distinguished service medal," Davis said. "Wing commander Nelson Perron, a close personal friend and John's successor, will deliver the eulogy. Members have collected photos of him, and will show a video montage of the moments of his life here at the base."

Services were set for Friday, July 19, at Pease Air National Guard Base, at 302 Newmarket St. in Newington.

A public viewing was set for 10 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11 a.m., inside Hangar 254. Gates were set to open at 9 a.m. for visitors, who will be directed to appropriate parking areas, according to Air Guard officials.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests financial contributions in memory of Pogorek can be made to the New Hampshire Military Assistance Foundation, according to his obituary .

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Brig. Gen. John Pogorek remembered by peer for leadership, as 'a farmer at heart'